On May 27, 2026, President Donald Trump characterized protesters outside Delaney Hall, an ICE detention facility in Newark, New Jersey, as 'fake' and 'paid for' during a Cabinet meeting. His remarks followed ongoing demonstrations at the facility, where detainees and their families have reported overcrowding, poor living conditions, and inadequate medical care. Some detainees have initiated a hunger strike, according to Senator Andy Kim, a Democrat from New Jersey.
The protests, which began on May 26, have escalated, with Democratic Representatives Daniel Goldman and Jerrold Nadler being escorted into the facility amid increasing scrutiny of the conditions inside. Demonstrators have clashed with ICE agents, attempting to block vehicle access to the facility. On May 28, law enforcement used tear gas to disperse protesters, with reports of physical confrontations.
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin defended the conditions at Delaney Hall, stating, 'This isn’t Holiday Inn,' and criticized the actions of elected officials who have visited the site. Senator Kim reported witnessing deteriorating conditions, including spoiled food, during his visit.
