During New Jersey's first Democratic gubernatorial primary debate, candidates expressed divergent views on immigration policy, particularly regarding the Laken Riley Act, a recently enacted law mandating the detention of undocumented immigrants accused of serious crimes. While most candidates pledged to protect undocumented immigrants from federal immigration enforcement actions, their stance on the Laken Riley Act varied, sparking debate.
ICE agents conducted a workforce operation. (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement)
Five of the six candidates affirmed their commitment to safeguarding immigrants in New Jersey, including those without legal status. They criticized the Trump administration's immigration policies, promising to prioritize humane deportation procedures and advocate for comprehensive immigration reform. Rep. Mikie Sherrill, however, emphasized the importance of protecting all individuals in New Jersey, particularly under the Constitution, without specifically addressing undocumented immigrants.
President Trump signed the Laken Riley Act. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
The Laken Riley Act emerged as a point of contention. While Rep. Josh Gottheimer, who voted for the act, defended its focus on detaining undocumented immigrants accused of violent crimes, he distinguished this group from "innocent undocumented people" and pledged to protect them from federal immigration enforcement. Other candidates, like Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop, criticized the act as "dangerous" and undermining state authority. Newark Mayor Ras Baraka strongly opposed the act, linking it to a political agenda rooted in racism and challenging the notion of a crime wave perpetrated by immigrants.
Rep. Gottheimer addressed the media following the debate. (AP/Mike Catalini)
The White House's position, articulated by Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, considers anyone residing in the U.S. illegally as a criminal. This perspective underscores the significant shift in approach to immigration enforcement under the current administration.
Newark Mayor Baraka shared his views after the debate. (AP photo/Mike Catalini)
Former state Senate President Steve Sweeney advocated for resisting the Trump administration's deportation efforts, citing the lack of legal search warrants in ICE raids. He maintained that while those who commit crimes in the U.S. should not remain in the country, due process must be followed. New Jersey Education Association President Sean Spiller expressed concern over the administration's immigration policies, suggesting they pose a threat to everyone.
Immigration enforcement operations were conducted in El Paso. (FBI)
Former state Senate President Sweeney also spoke to the press. (AP photo/Mike Catalini)
Despite their strong criticism of President Trump, the Democratic candidates acknowledged the need for comprehensive immigration reform, emphasizing the importance of humane treatment and pathways to citizenship for those already residing in the U.S., alongside improved border security.
