Governor Mikie Sherrill, a Democrat known for her opposition to President Trump’s immigration policies, joined a protest on Monday outside a New Jersey detention center. The demonstration supported detainees participating in a hunger strike at Delaney Hall in Newark.
Gov. Sherrill sought access to the facility and listened to complaints from the families of detainees about poor living conditions. They reported issues such as spoiled food and inadequate medical care. Protesters gathered outside, waving signs, beating drums, and chanting, ‘Free Them All.’
Addressing the crowd, Gov. Sherrill emphasized the need for humane treatment regardless of immigration status, stating, ‘No matter what your immigration status is, you shouldn’t be treated with anything less than dignity in this country.’ Her appearance in casual attire on Memorial Day highlighted her solidarity with those affected.
Gov. Sherrill has frequently clashed with the Trump administration. Notably, in April, the administration filed a lawsuit against her and New Jersey’s attorney general over a state law preventing law enforcement, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, from wearing masks while on duty.
The privately managed, 1,000-bed facility has become central to discussions on immigration policy as it houses numerous immigrants detained in New York City and the Northeast. Detentions have increased at homes, courthouses, and federal offices amid the administration’s immigration crackdown.
This represents at least the second instance where the Trump administration legally challenged immigration policies enacted under Gov. Sherrill’s leadership.