Mayor Ras Baraka, who was arrested for trespassing during a protest at a federal immigration facility last week, stated on Monday in a televised debate for gubernatorial candidates that his actions effectively showcased opposition to the president’s immigration policies.
Baraka maintained that he did nothing wrong despite his arrest at the Delaney Hall detention facility in Newark last Friday.
During the Democratic debate among New Jersey’s gubernatorial candidates, he reiterated that his actions were justified.
“We’re not interfering with federal law enforcement,” Baraka asserted when the debate shifted to discuss the incident at the Newark ICE detention facility. “We didn’t go there to protest. We were actually there to have a press conference, and Congress was conducting surveillance, which was heightened by Homeland Security.”
Baraka’s arrest occurred amidst a protest at Delaney Hall, which included three congressional members. A Department of Homeland Security representative noted that these lawmakers were present outside the facility alongside protesters.
The arrest took place after activists had been trying to gain entry to the facility for several days. This venue, now designated as an immigration detention center, was recently upgraded.
“We aren’t asking for anything unreasonable. We just want them to adhere to our laws,” Baraka explained post-arrest. “We expect them to follow the policies and regulations in our city and New Jersey. Please don’t disregard the Constitution’s fourth and fifth amendments; everyone on this soil deserves due process.”
Later in the debate, other candidates were asked if they viewed Baraka’s methods as “effective” or if they would have approached things differently. While most candidates effectively dodged the question, they promoted their support for immigrant rights and criticized Donald Trump, with some expressing praise for Baraka’s actions.
“I’m not suggesting I would do anything different,” remarked Rep. Mikie Sherrill, a Democrat representing the 11th Congressional District. “I don’t see the mayor as trespassing; he had been invited to speak with my council colleagues.”
Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop, also a gubernatorial candidate, defended Baraka’s actions, responding directly to questions regarding the mayor’s tactics.
The remaining candidates did not address the questions directly, and the moderator quickly transitioned to the next topic.
