New Jersey Democratic Senator Andy Kim responded after DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin accused him of engaging in “political theater” following a protest outside Newark’s Delaney Hall detention facility, where Kim was struck by pepper-ball spray while confronting federal officers.
Senator Kim Speaks Out
Kim, along with other New Jersey Democrats including Gov. Mikie Sherrill, has criticized conditions at Delaney Hall, a privately operated immigration detention center in Newark. Kim said his actions were never about himself, but about holding authorities accountable for what he described as inhumane treatment of detainees.
“Secretary Markwayne Mullin in a cabinet meeting today said that I shouldn’t be there,” Kim said on social media. “I was willing to take that risk. I’m not complaining about the pepperball spraying — I’m complaining about the treatment of my constituents, Americans, and civilians in harm’s way.”
Kim also raised concerns about the federal government awarding contracts to manage the facility, calling the arrangements inappropriate and harmful.
DHS Pushback
Secretary Mullin criticized Kim’s actions, accusing him of spreading false narratives and inflaming tensions. Mullin told Fox News Digital that the detention facility is holding individuals who broke U.S. laws, including serious criminals, and that the detainees receive medical care, food, and shelter.
“Contrary to what liberal politicians and the leftist media want you to think: DHS does NOT make the laws. Our officers are enforcing laws passed by Congress,” Mullin said. He added that Democratic lawmakers’ protests put public safety at risk and prioritize political goals over law enforcement.
Political Reactions and Commentary
The clash over Delaney Hall has drawn reactions from both parties. New Jersey Assemblyman Paul Kanitra, a Republican, highlighted the facility’s food vendor, joking that if the food is good enough for Giants Stadium, it should be good enough for detainees.
Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer condemned the use of force against Kim and other lawmakers during protests. “When even U.S. Senators are targeted, every American should understand: no one is safe from ICE’s abuses,” Schumer said.
Meanwhile, Republican Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia mocked the Democratic protests in a social media post, comparing lawmakers’ actions to a “Choose Your Own Adventure” book. She suggested that elected officials were repeatedly choosing dangerous options and portraying the events as heroic.
Protests Continue at Delaney Hall
Protests at Delaney Hall have continued throughout the week. While demonstrations during daylight hours have generally been peaceful, some evening protests involve black-clad participants wearing goggles and masks. Witnesses reported that agitators returned again on Thursday morning, continuing to challenge the facility and federal officers.
