Trump’s new DHS head is stepping up.
A heated immigration battle erupted over Memorial Day weekend after several New Jersey Democrats confronted federal immigration officials at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facility, drawing sharp criticism from Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin.
The dispute centered around Delaney Hall, an ICE detention facility in Newark, where Democratic lawmakers and anti-ICE activists claimed detainees were being held in poor conditions. Federal officials strongly denied those accusations, calling the controversy politically motivated.
Mullin accused Democratic leaders of using the situation to generate media attention while undermining immigration enforcement efforts supported by President Donald Trump.
Mullin said in a social media post that the situation appeared to be a publicity effort by New Jersey sanctuary-state politicians aimed at attracting donations and media attention.
The Homeland Security secretary specifically criticized Sen. Cory Booker, Gov. Mikie Sherrill, Sen. Andy Kim, and Representatives Rob Menendez and Nellie Pou after they publicly challenged ICE operations and demanded access to the facility.
According to Mullin, many of the claims circulating online about conditions inside Delaney Hall were inaccurate.
“There is NO hunger strike at Delaney Hall. There are no subprime conditions,” Mullin stated.
The controversy intensified after protesters gathered outside the facility during the holiday weekend. Demonstrators chanted anti-ICE slogans and attempted to block activity outside the building, while federal officers worked to maintain order.
Local reports indicated that tensions escalated after some protesters shouted at officers and threw water during confrontations near the detention center. Several demonstrators were eventually detained by authorities.
Governor Sherrill later said she attempted to enter the facility after hearing reports describing unsafe and unconstitutional conditions. According to her statement, ICE officials denied her request for access.
Booker also criticized the detention center publicly and vowed to continue pushing for answers regarding detainee treatment.
Representative Rob Menendez claimed he remained outside the facility overnight after being denied entry during what he described as an oversight visit tied to concerns involving a detainee facing possible deportation.
Federal officials, however, pushed back aggressively against the accusations.
The Department of Homeland Security released a statement defending conditions inside the facility and outlining the services provided to detainees. DHS said individuals held at Delaney Hall receive meals reviewed by certified dietitians, access to clean drinking water, showers, bedding, hygiene products, and communication with family members and attorneys.
Officials also argued that ICE detention standards are closely monitored and often exceed requirements seen in many correctional facilities across the country.
For many conservatives, the clash reflects a growing divide over immigration enforcement and sanctuary-state policies. Supporters of President Trump argue that ICE agents are carrying out necessary law enforcement duties aimed at protecting American communities and securing the border.
Meanwhile, critics of the administration continue calling for greater oversight and transparency at federal immigration detention facilities.
As the 2028 political season continues heating up, immigration enforcement remains one of the most divisive and politically charged issues in the country — with both parties using moments like this to energize their supporters.
