It’s pretty typical for politicians to engage in stunts leading up to big elections. And honestly, you can see the motivation behind the recent actions of New Jersey Democrats. Just months ahead of the midterms, one individual found himself sent to an immigration detention center for “supporting” someone on a hunger strike.
For those who prioritize facts, however, there are a few points that need clarification. The Delaney Hall facility, which reopened last year with a capacity of 1,000 beds, quickly attracted criticism, especially from Democrats who are keen to leverage opposition to President Trump’s immigration policies. Interestingly, Ras Baraka, the mayor of Newark, found this situation conveniently aligned with his gubernatorial campaign efforts.
The most recent concerns raised by New Jersey officials, including Sen. Andy Kim and Gov. Mikie Sherrill, alongside many protesters, stem from complaints made last year. These issues tend to blend unverified claims about facility conditions with broader anti-ICE sentiments.
Yet, where were these complaints when the same facility operated as an ICE processing center during the Obama administration, receiving little Democratic pushback from 2011 to 2017, even amid unannounced compliance visits? Back then, there weren’t any notable mayors or senators voicing dissent. It feels more like a political charade now.
Some might argue that an inmate died of natural causes last December, and while that’s unfortunate, it’s crucial to remember that over 336 individuals died in New Jersey correctional facilities between 2018 and 2024, averaging around 48 deaths annually—41 per year when excluding those related to COVID-19.
Out of those, the majority—about 83%—were due to natural causes, while 17% resulted from accidents, injuries, or violence. To put it into perspective, in 2025, the number of deaths in ICE facilities nationwide will likely be far lower than what’s been seen in New Jersey correctional facilities alone.
But where were the protests outside New Jersey’s correctional facilities? What about the so-called prison abolition protesters? Did state leaders even bother to ask for access? Unsurprisingly, the answer is no.
Moreover, it’s important to note that New Jersey collects millions from federal taxpayers for illegal immigrant detentions. Just in fiscal year 2024, the Department of Corrections shelled out over $4 million on expenses for illegal aliens in its custody, largely funded by the State Criminal Alien Assistance Program (SCAAP), which aims to reimburse states for costs associated with incarcerating undocumented individuals.
These statistics should be front-of-mind when considering the claims made by New Jersey politicians regarding ICE facilities.
Additionally, the economic impact of Delaney Hall shouldn’t be overlooked. The facility employs about 300 people, contributing significantly to the local economy—which is estimated to see around $50 million in activity annually.
While some politicians are claiming conditions there amount to “torture,” it’s essential to examine the facts. ICE has stated that it maintains higher detention standards than many U.S. prisons, including those in New Jersey. Detainees receive three meals daily, clean water, clothing, bedding, showers, and access to legal representation—suggesting that allegations of inhumane conditions may stem from exaggeration or misrepresentation.
As the midterm elections loom, New Jersey politicians may be seizing the moment for a quick photo op, but genuine public service requires a consistent commitment to confronting these complexities, not just reacting to the moment.
In that context, New Jersey Democrats seem to be doing a disservice both to the hardworking ICE personnel and their constituents.
