NEW YORK (AP) – Brad Lander, New York City comptroller and a candidate for the Democratic mayoral primary, was arrested by federal agents on Tuesday at an immigration court in Manhattan. The incident occurred while Lander was attempting to accompany an individual out of the courtroom, who was also taken into custody. An Associated Press reporter present during the event documented Lander's arrest, highlighting the tense atmosphere as federal agents intervened.
In the morning prior to his arrest, Lander had been observing hearings at the immigration court and expressed his intent to accompany immigrants exiting the building. A video captured by the AP reporter reveals a federal agent accusing Lander of obstructing law enforcement. During the moments leading up to his arrest, Lander was physically separated from the individual he was accompanying, leading to a brief struggle where he attempted to remain close to the detainee.
As he was being handcuffed, Lander asserted, "I’m not obstructing, I’m standing right here in the hallway." He also challenged the agents' authority, stating, "You don’t have the authority to arrest U.S. citizens asking for a judicial warrant," as he was escorted down the hallway and into an elevator by officers, at least one of whom was visibly identifiable by a tactical vest labeled “federal agent.” Other officers involved in the operation were dressed in plain clothes and wore surgical masks.
This incident occurred amidst a broader crackdown by federal immigration officials, who are conducting large-scale arrests outside immigration courtrooms nationwide. As the situation unfolded, inquiries made via email to the FBI and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) went without immediate response, reflecting the chaotic nature of the circumstances surrounding Lander’s arrest.
In the context of the ongoing Democratic mayoral primary, Lander's campaign released a statement asserting, "While escorting a defendant out of immigration court at 26 Federal Plaza, Brad was taken by masked agents and detained by ICE." The campaign’s remarks indicate a keen awareness of the potential political ramifications that may arise from the incident, given Lander's position within the city’s political landscape.
The primary is significant as early voting has already commenced, and Lander's participation and subsequent arrest may influence voter perceptions and the dynamics of the ongoing election race. The confrontation at the immigration court spotlights not only the contentious nature of immigration enforcement in the United States but also raises questions about civil rights and the role of elected officials in advocating for vulnerable populations.
