Where the state has been was right alongside Mayor Baraka trying to block these detention centers. Governor Murphy signed a law 4 years ago banning private immigration facilities in NJ and his administration is still fighting to defend that law in court. When Baraka got arrested, Murphy immediately called it “an unjust arrest”: https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/news/562025/approved/20250509a.shtml
Now we see what happens when officials actually try to enforce that. The fact that Baraka was arrested outside the gates just shows how aggressive these facilities are getting with anyone who challenges their operations.
Where was the state in all of this?
Where the state has been was right alongside Mayor Baraka trying to block these detention centers. Governor Murphy signed a law 4 years ago banning private immigration facilities in NJ and his administration is still fighting to defend that law in court. When Baraka got arrested, Murphy immediately called it “an unjust arrest”: https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/news/562025/approved/20250509a.shtml
AG Matt Platkin said the arrest violated democratic principles and civil rights: https://www.njoag.gov/statement-of-attorney-general-matthew-j-platkin-on-the-arrest-of-newark-mayor-ras-baraka/ Senator Andy Kim said it was “shocking” and demanded Baraka be released: https://newjerseyglobe.com/campaigns/key-n-j-officials-comment-on-baraka-arrest-at-detention-center-protest/
The state’s been consistent that they don’t want these private detention facilities operating in NJ, period. Newark was literally suing the facility for operating without proper permits: https://newjerseymonitor.com/2025/04/10/newark-lawsuit-aims-to-cripple-immigrant-enforcement-prison-company-alleges/
Now we see what happens when officials actually try to enforce that. The fact that Baraka was arrested outside the gates just shows how aggressive these facilities are getting with anyone who challenges their operations.