Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin criticized Senator Cory Booker, Governor Mikie Sherrill, and other Democrats for their actions during Memorial Day weekend, which he described as a "political stunt". The Democrats sought access to a New Jersey U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility, claiming it has inhumane conditions. Mullin, previously a Republican senator, expressed his views in a post on X, stating that the actions were for "fundraising clicks".
Protests occurred outside the New Jersey detention facility, where critics allege that illegal immigrants are held in poor conditions. Sherrill attempted to enter the facility but was denied access. Following this, Democrats rallied in support of Sherrill, criticizing ICE and the facility on social media. In response, Mullin asserted that there was no hunger strike at Delaney Hall and denied claims of substandard conditions.
He further criticized the Democrats for their Memorial Day actions, stating that they should be thanking law enforcement for their work in removing dangerous individuals from the state. Sherrill later stated that her request to access the facility raised questions about what might be hidden from public view. Booker also expressed intentions to return to the facility, asserting that conditions there are "deplorable".
Menendez reported that he had spent the night at the facility for an oversight visit but was also denied entry. Protests included attempts to form a human chain outside the detention center, with some demonstrators clashing with ICE agents. DHS responded to the protests by stating that detainees are provided with adequate meals and facilities, asserting that ICE maintains higher detention standards than many U.S. prisons. Fox News Digital reached out to the involved parties for comments.