7 Million Views: Spanish-Language ICE Guide From City Hall Draws Republican Condemnation

A social media post from New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani regarding immigration enforcement drew more than 7 million views on Friday. The message provided instructions in Spanish detailing how residents should act during encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.

Mamdani's post outlined specific legal boundaries for federal agents. It stated that ICE cannot enter private locations such as a home, a school, a hospital, or a private area of a workplace without a judicial warrant signed by a judge. The mayor also reminded New Yorkers of their right to remain silent and offered advice for these interactions, noting that these are frightening times for many people.

Republican lawmakers and conservative commentators criticized the mayor's message. Rep. Brandon Gill of Texas wrote that it should be insulting to Americans that the mayor of the largest city became a citizen less than a decade ago and now coaches illegal aliens in a foreign language on avoiding lawful deportation. Sen. Mike Lee of Utah posted that at no point in the video is anyone urged to abide by the laws of the United States. Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina wrote, "If you're here illegally, you're not a New Yorker. Period." Sen. Bernie Moreno of Ohio posted the single word "Treason."

Other critics included actor Dean Cain and Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton. Fitton described the post as dangerous incitement containing disturbing falsehoods and stated that the statement could put lives in danger.

This guidance aligns with Mamdani's previous actions regarding immigration enforcement. During his campaign and after taking office, he called for abolishing ICE and stated that the NYPD would not assist the agency with civil immigration enforcement. He has also described ICE operations as harmful to immigrant communities.

As mayor, Mamdani signed an executive order strengthening New York City's sanctuary policies. The order limits city agency cooperation with federal immigration authorities, protects personal information, and establishes protocols for handling requests from ICE to access city property or records.