City Hall: Mamdani's ICE Guide Sparks National Debate

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani issued a Spanish-language guide on Friday advising residents on how to interact with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The mayor has long opposed the federal agency, calling for its abolition during his campaign and after taking office. He stated that the NYPD would not assist ICE with civil immigration enforcement. As mayor, he signed an executive order to strengthen the city's sanctuary policies. The order limits city agency cooperation with federal immigration authorities and protects resident personal information. It also mandates expanded "know your rights" training for city employees.

On Friday, Mamdani posted a video on X that received over 7 million views. The clip explains that ICE cannot enter private spaces like homes, schools, hospitals, or private workplace areas without a judicial warrant signed by a judge. He reminded viewers of the right to remain silent and described the current moment as "very frightening times for many people."

Criticism emerged quickly from conservative figures on social media. Rep. Brandon Gill, R-Tex., called it insulting that a mayor who became a citizen less than a decade ago is coaching residents in a foreign language on avoiding deportation. Actor Dean Cain stated that unless a person is there illegally, they have no reason to fear the agency. He described Mamdani as "dangerous."

Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, noted that the video never urges anyone to abide by U.S. laws because it was not made for the benefit of the United States. Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., wrote that if a person is here illegally, they are not a New Yorker. Sen. Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio, used the word "Treason" in response to the post.

Tomi Lahren, a Fox News commentator, criticized foreign-born Democrats for instructing residents on how to evade the law. Tom Fitton, president of Judicial Watch, called the statement "dangerous incitement" filled with "disturbing falsehoods" by a "communist terrorist supporter." He warned that the statement could put lives in danger.

Mamdani's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital as of the time of reporting.