News - Mayor Mamdani Supports 'Abolish ICE' Movement Among Democrats

During a recent interview, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged his fellow Democrats to embrace the 'Abolish ICE' movement, a stance he has long supported. The conversation arose during his appearance on MS NOW's 'The Weekend', where he was asked about the ongoing protests at the ICE facility, Delaney Hall in Newark. Highlighting the poor conditions within Delaney Hall, Mamdani reaffirmed his commitment to abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), arguing that the agency's inherent enforcement cruelty defies reform. Mamdani stated, 'This is part of why I've joined many others in advocating for ICE to be abolished. The cruelty embedded in immigration enforcement across the U.S. is irreparable.' He also took pride in New York City's sanctuary city policies and the executive orders ensuring compliance across agencies. When questioned about the potential political risks associated with phrases like 'Abolish ICE', which some Democrats believe could harm the party's image, Mamdani criticized past approaches. 'We've heeded them before, and look where it’s brought us,' he pointed out. Instead, he called for a bolder, principle-driven vision for the Democratic Party. To expand the Democratic reach beyond its base, Mamdani emphasized the importance of 'delivering' meaningful outcomes. Using New York City as an example, he detailed plans for universal child care, showcasing his policies' tangible, positive impacts. Mamdani's criticism of ICE aligns with his broader stance against the Trump administration's immigration policies, which he views as unlawful. As part of his commitment, he issued an executive order prohibiting local law enforcement from engaging with ICE without a judicial warrant, reinforcing the city's rule of law. The ongoing discussions reflect a broader discourse within the Democratic Party about finding pragmatic solutions while adhering to foundational principles, positioning Mamdani at the forefront of this critical conversation.