Democratic lawmakers in a prominent blue state are encountering criticism following their recent move to hinder federal immigration enforcement through a bill that features a provocative acronym.
The F—ICE Act, formally known as the “Combatting Illegal Practices and Continuing to Empower Individuals and Communities Act,” would facilitate civil lawsuits for breaches of the U.S. Constitution regarding immigration enforcement. This legislation emerged in the wake of tensions between federal authorities and Democratic Socialist lawmakers.
This month, local and state officials expressed heightened tensions with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), particularly after federal agents allegedly detained nearly a dozen individuals on the Hudson Bergen Light Rail in Jersey City. Democratic Socialist City Councilman Jake Efros was at the scene, but was reportedly denied assistance by a federal agent who claimed, “We don’t need a warrant.”
In reaction to this incident, Democratic Representatives Ravi Barra and Katie Brennan from nearby Hoboken put forward the F—ICE Act. Barra also revealed additional bills aimed at curbing collaboration between New Jersey and the federal government.
Barra reflected on his earlier tenure as mayor of Hoboken, mentioning his efforts to establish a sanctuary city ordinance. Hoboken, notably, is located right across the Hudson River from Manhattan, and is often connected to Frank Sinatra.
“ICE has no place in our communities,” he stated. “The stakes are now even higher, and we must utilize our power to ensure the safety of our residents.”
Brennan highlighted Efros’ encounter with ICE during her remarks, stressing that we cannot “sit back and do nothing while we violate people’s constitutional rights.” She asserted that the new legislation aims to enhance local protections and hold accountable those who disrupt community safety.
Critics, however, have voiced concerns about the approach taken, with some labeling her behavior as “uncharacteristic” and “unfeminine,” a comment made by fellow Hoboken Democratic state Senator Raj Mukherji, who proposed the acronym.
Mukherji emphasized that ICE has contributed to “seeds of chaos” nationwide. Notably, some lawmakers, particularly those from more conservative, rural areas in northwestern New Jersey, have not aligned with these efforts.
Rep. Michael Inganamort (R-Chester) criticized the use of acronyms, suggesting this radical approach was a product of 25 years of unchecked Democratic control. “This is what our Republican minority stands against and why this election is significant,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, Rep. Dawn Fantasia (R-Sussex) characterized the bill’s title as “wild,” questioning the underlying premise. “I don’t have the details yet, but if that’s the implication, it opens the door for the state to sue over enforcement,” she mentioned, worried about the financial implications for New Jersey taxpayers.
Another conservative commentator humorously suggested that “Katie and Ravi need to wash their mouths out with soap.” Rep. Paul Kanitra (R-Point Pleasant Beach) compared the legislation to how the state handles offensive license plates, suggesting it should be similarly rejected.
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill was unavailable for comment. Early in her administration, she signed Executive Order 12, which limited ICE operations on state-owned land and established a system for residents to report immigration enforcement activities.
“I take my duty to protect the safety of New Jersey residents seriously,” Sherrill stated previously, emphasizing her commitment to the Constitution.
