ICE raids ignite statewide clash as Gov. Sherrill urges residents to resist
HOBOKEN, N.J. – Immigration and Customs Enforcement has intensified operations across New Jersey, triggering public outrage and a fierce political showdown with Governor Mikie Sherrill, who has launched a campaign urging residents to record and report ICE activity.
A state-funded app to report ICE agents has been announced by the governor.
Over the past week, ICE agents have carried out enforcement actions in multiple cities, including Hoboken, Jersey City, and New Brunswick. Witnesses reported agents arriving in unmarked vehicles, some armed and masked, with arrests confirmed at transit stations and near local businesses. At least two restaurant workers were reported missing following an operation at Hoboken’s 9th Street Light Rail Station.
A video circulating online shows an ICE agent responding to local officials’ questions by saying, “I don’t need a warrant, bro,” sparking condemnation from community leaders and civil rights groups. Advocates say the surge in enforcement has fueled widespread fear among immigrant families, with many residents avoiding work and public transportation.
Governor Sherrill, who took office last month, has responded by denouncing the raids as “unaccountable” and “reckless,” unveiling a new state-run portal where residents can upload photos and videos of ICE activity. “If you see an ICE agent in the street, get your phone out,” she said at a weekend briefing. “We want transparency and accountability for what’s happening in our neighborhoods.”
The state legislature has quickly advanced bills restricting ICE from using state property for enforcement and limiting data sharing with federal authorities. Local officials, including Hoboken Mayor Emily Jabbour and Jersey City leaders, condemned the lack of notice from federal agencies, saying the actions “created unnecessary panic.”
Meanwhile, Republicans have criticized Sherrill’s response as politically motivated. State Senator Tony Bucco questioned the governor’s focus on “monitoring federal law enforcement” instead of cooperating with national security agencies.
Community groups like Wind of the Spirit and Spirit of Liberation have organized emergency “Know Your Rights” sessions, drawing hundreds of residents in Hoboken and Jersey City. Advocates report a surge in hotline calls from individuals seeking legal aid or clarification on recent arrests.
Key Points:
- ICE conducted multiple enforcement actions in Hoboken, Jersey City, and New Brunswick over the past week.
- Gov. Mikie Sherrill launched a public campaign urging residents to record ICE activity and report agents.
- State and local officials are advancing legislation to curb ICE’s access to state property and data amid growing public fear.