Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) may soon face legal consequences over her latest immigration-related protest, according to a warning from the Department of Homeland Security. Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, stated during an appearance on Fox News that AOC could be arrested if she repeats actions similar to other Democrats who have recently interfered with ICE operations.
The warning comes in the wake of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka’s arrest outside an immigration detention facility. Baraka reportedly refused to leave the premises after being denied entry and ultimately clashed with officers. DHS officials said he joined demonstrators attempting to storm the gates, which led to a physical altercation. Representatives LaMonica McIver, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and Rob Menendez Jr.—all Democrats from New Jersey—were also present.
McLaughlin dismissed the idea that the lawmakers were conducting oversight, arguing that they had not followed proper protocol. “If they’d just requested a tour 24 hours in advance, we would have gladly arranged it,” she said, accusing them of political theater and endangering officers.
Ocasio-Cortez later posted a video on Instagram warning ICE and DHS agents not to “lay a finger” on Coleman or any of the attending lawmakers. “There will be a problem if you do,” she said defiantly.
ICE later released bodycam footage of the incident and claimed McIver assaulted an agent. Officials defended their use of the Delaney Hall facility, emphasizing that it houses individuals accused or convicted of serious crimes, including gang members, child predators, and suspected terrorists.
The incident has ignited fierce debate, with Ocasio-Cortez and her supporters calling it a matter of congressional oversight and humanitarian concern, while DHS officials and critics view it as reckless interference. As tensions grow between progressive lawmakers and immigration enforcement, this latest clash may be only the beginning of a deeper legal and political battle.