Brad Lander Arrested by ICE Agents Amid Immigration Tensions
The arrest has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, with many calling it an abuse of power and a threat to democracy. The incident has raised questions about the Trump administration's treatment of immigrants and its relationship with local officials, and has highlighted the tensions between the federal government and local authorities over immigration policies.
New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, a mayoral candidate, was arrested by ICE agents outside an immigration court while escorting a defendant, sparking widespread outrage and condemnation from officials and mayoral candidates.
The incident occurred on June 17, 2025, amid an immigration crackdown under President Donald Trump, who has directed agents to conduct raids and deport immigrants in the US illegally. Lander was detained for allegedly obstructing the arrest and assaulting law enforcement, but he denies assaulting an officer and claims he was simply escorting a defendant out of court.
The arrest has been condemned by Lander's campaign, New York Attorney General Letitia James, and the New York Civil Liberties Union, who call it an abuse of power and a threat to democracy. Governor Kathy Hochul intervened, and Lander was released without charges after being held for over four hours. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) claimed that Lander was arrested for assaulting law enforcement and impeding a federal officer, but video of the incident does not show Lander assaulting anyone.
The incident has raised questions about the Trump administration's treatment of immigrants and its relationship with local officials. Other mayoral candidates have rallied to Lander's side, calling the arrest "thuggery" and "terrorising". Lander has denied that the arrest was a political stunt, stating that he came to the court to bear witness and stand up for the rule of law.
The arrest of Brad Lander has sparked controversy and highlighted the tensions between the Trump administration and local officials over immigration policies. As the incident continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how it will impact Lander's mayoral campaign and the broader debate over immigration in the US.