Kim calls ICE detention center pepper-spray unrest one of the toughest moments of his career

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY: Sen Andy Kim said the past week of clashes outside the Delaney Hall immigration detention center has been among the most challenging periods of his public life, citing growing tensions between protesters and law enforcement over conditions inside the facility.

Speaking on CNN’s 'State of the Union' on Sunday, May 31, the New Jersey Democrat said that he was deeply worried about the situation unfolding in his state, describing it as a level of instability he had not witnessed during his time in elected office.

Protests sparked by hunger strike allegations

Demonstrations outside the Newark detention center began after reports that said that detained migrants had launched a hunger strike to protest living conditions inside the facility.

The protests intensified when law enforcement officers used pepper-spray projectiles to disperse crowds, with Kim among those reportedly affected.

The senator said many demonstrators expressed anger and frustration over what they viewed as treatment that did not reflect American values, sentiments he said he understood and shared.

As protests continued over the weekend, New Jersey Gov Mikie Sherrill deployed state police to the area, while Newark Mayor Ras Baraka imposed an evening curfew around the detention center for the foreseeable future.

Kim joined other New Jersey Democratic leaders in demanding greater transparency and an independent review of conditions inside Delaney Hall.

While some officials were denied access to the facility, Kim said he was able to enter after personally contacting Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin.

Calls grow for investigation and reforms

Following his visit, Kim maintained that serious problems exist inside the detention center and called for an investigation by the Department of Homeland Security’s inspector general.

He said the inquiry should examine both detention conditions and delays affecting migrants’ access to immigration court proceedings.

The senator also criticized suggestions that international flight processing could be curtailed at airports located in so-called sanctuary cities, warning such a move could inflict significant economic damage and disrupt travel nationwide.

Mullin has pushed back against allegations regarding conditions at Delaney Hall, saying the facility houses individuals accused or convicted of serious crimes. He also dismissed concerns surrounding the hunger strike, arguing detainees were being provided adequate food and sanitation.

Calls for Delaney Hall’s closure have intensified in recent days. Kim and fellow New Jersey Sen Cory Booker have joined civil rights organizations, including the ACLU, as well as House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, in urging federal authorities to shut down the detention center and address concerns raised by lawmakers and advocates.