TRENTON, NJ – Lieutenant Governor Way has publicly defended Congresswoman LaMonica McIver, who faces criminal charges following her controversial actions at an ICE detention center. McIver, a freshman representative, stormed the facility to protest immigration policies, leading to a confrontation where she was seen on video pushing and shoving federal agents.
In a statement released today, Lt. Governor Way expressed deep concern over the charges, framing them as an attack on constitutional checks and balances. “Members of Congress have a clear responsibility to conduct oversight of the executive branch,” Way said. “This sets a dangerous precedent that threatens the checks and balances of our Constitution. I stand with Congresswoman McIver and will continue to speak out against this abuse of power.”
Way’s comments are accurate, but congressional Republicans said her actions went beyond that, and are now seeking to censure her for her assault on the federal agents.
The incident occurred last week when McIver, accompanied by a group of activists, fellow congresspeople, and Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, entered the ICE facility to demand transparency on detainee conditions. According to federal authorities, McIver’s actions escalated when she allegedly pushed past security barriers and physically engaged with agents attempting to block her entry.
The Department of Justice has charged her with assault on a federal officer and trespassing, charges that could carry significant penalties.
Supporters of McIver, including Lt. Governor Way, argue that her actions were a legitimate exercise of congressional oversight, aimed at exposing alleged human rights violations within the detention system. Critics, however, including Republican lawmakers and ICE officials, have condemned her conduct as reckless and unlawful, accusing her of endangering federal agents and undermining public safety.
“This is not oversight; this is anarchy,” said Senator John Harrow (R), a vocal critic of McIver’s actions. “No one is above the law, not even a member of Congress.”
