Newark Mayor Ras Baraka Arrested During Protest at ICE Detention Center Amid Gubernatorial Campaign(Al Jazeera)
On May 9, 2025, Newark Mayor and Democratic gubernatorial candidate Ras Baraka was arrested outside the Delaney Hall ICE detention facility in Newark, New Jersey. Baraka was participating in a protest alongside Democratic Representatives Rob Menendez, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and LaMonica McIver, who were conducting a congressional oversight visit. While waiting outside the fenced area, Baraka was instructed to leave and, although he complied, was subsequently arrested by ICE agents .(The Daily Beast)
The arrest has sparked significant political discourse. Democratic lawmakers, including Governor Phil Murphy and Senators Cory Booker and Andy Kim, condemned the arrest as disturbing and politically motivated. Interim U.S. Attorney Alina Habba, a Trump advisor, defended the arrest, accusing Baraka of trespassing and ignoring warnings. DHS officials claimed the incident was a politically charged stunt, alleging that Democrats attempted to release dangerous detainees .(New Jersey Monitor, The Daily Beast)
Baraka has been a vocal opponent of the Delaney Hall facility, which is operated by the GEO Group under a $1 billion, 15-year contract with ICE. He has cited alleged building permit violations and safety concerns as grounds for its closure. The city of Newark has filed a lawsuit against GEO Group, challenging the facility’s operations .(New York Post, People.com, New York Magazine)
This incident occurs amid a competitive Democratic primary for the New Jersey gubernatorial race. Recent polls indicate a fragmented field with no clear frontrunner. An internal poll from Baraka’s campaign shows a statistical dead heat between him and Rep. Mikie Sherrill, with a significant portion of voters still undecided .(New Jersey Globe)
Baraka’s arrest has intensified the debate over immigration enforcement and federal authority, highlighting the tensions between local and federal jurisdictions. As the primary election approaches, the incident may influence voter perceptions and campaign dynamics.(The Daily Beast)