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Newark, N.J. – Rep. LaMonica McIver, a Democrat from New Jersey, pleaded not guilty Wednesday to federal felony assault charges stemming from an altercation at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility last month. The charges have ignited a storm of political controversy, with McIver framing the case as an attack on Congressional oversight and civil liberties.
The charges relate to a May 9 incident at Delaney Hall, a privately operated detention center in Newark. Prosecutors allege that McIver physically obstructed law enforcement agents during the attempted arrest of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, who had joined the visit to assess detention conditions. Charges against Baraka have since been dismissed.
A Clash Over Immigration Oversight
Rep. McIver, in a public statement following her arraignment, accused the Trump administration of using immigration enforcement as a weapon of political intimidation.
“Yesterday, at Delaney Hall, I witnessed firsthand the chaos and cruelty that defines the Trump administration's immigration policy,” she said, pointing to what she described as a violent overreaction by ICE personnel.
She added that members of Congress have both the right and the responsibility to inspect and oversee federal programs, including immigration enforcement.
“We were met with contempt, disrespect and aggression from ICE,” McIver said. “From roughing up members of Congress to arresting the mayor of our state’s largest city, this is nothing short of abuse of power.”
Political Backlash and Partisan Divide
McIver's arrest has quickly become a flashpoint in the ongoing battle over immigration and executive authority. Supporters gathered outside the courthouse in a show of solidarity after her plea.
“I just left court and pleaded not guilty because I am not guilty,” she told reporters. “At the end of the day, this is about political intimidation.”
But not everyone in Washington agrees. Rep. Clay Higgins (R-La.) introduced a resolution Tuesday seeking to censure McIver and remove her from the House Homeland Security Committee, citing her alleged obstruction as a violation of Congressional conduct.
What Comes Next
A tentative trial date has been set for November 10. If convicted, McIver could face serious legal and political consequences, though her legal team has vowed to fight the charges aggressively.
For now, the case remains a litmus test for how far partisan tensions—and accountability battles over immigration enforcement—can stretch within federal institutions.