NEWARK, NJ May 26, 2026— Tensions escalated outside Delaney Hall, a privately operated ICE detention facility in Newark, over the Memorial Day weekend as protesters clashed with federal agents amid claims of a hunger and labor strike by detainees.
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin sharply criticized New Jersey Democrats, including Gov. Mikie Sherrill and other officials, for what he described as a “political stunt” prioritizing protests over honoring fallen service members.
In a clip aired on Fox News’ Hannity, Mullin stated: “This shows where these extreme, radical Democrats’ priorities are, when they choose Memorial Day, of all the days, to go out and protest the fact that we took criminals off the streets?”
Protests began after reports that around 300 detainees at the GEO Group-run facility launched a hunger and labor strike, alleging spoiled food, medical neglect, extreme heat, and inadequate conditions. Advocates and families demanded the release of elderly, young, and medically vulnerable individuals.
DHS and ICE officials have strongly denied the existence of a hunger strike or substandard conditions, asserting that detainees receive proper meals and care. Visitation was suspended due to safety concerns after protesters blocked entrances and interfered with operations, including a detainee transfer.
Clashes occurred as demonstrators, some forming human chains and barricades, confronted ICE agents. Videos showed agents in riot gear responding, with reports of pepper spray use. New Jersey officials, including Gov. Sherrill and Sen. Andy Kim, visited the site and were reportedly denied full access, fueling further criticism of federal handling.
Mullin and DHS spokespeople labeled the actions by “sanctuary politicians” as performative and aimed at fundraising, while emphasizing the facility holds individuals with serious criminal backgrounds.
The incident highlights ongoing debates over immigration enforcement, private detention operations, and conditions at facilities like Delaney Hall, which reopened as a large-scale center in recent years. Protests continued into the week, with calls for investigations from both sides.
No major injuries were widely reported, but the events drew national attention amid the Trump administration’s push for expanded deportations.
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