NYC Comptroller Brad Lander Arrested by ICE, Speaks Out on Due Process

Arrest and Release of Brad Lander

• 🗽 New York City Comptroller Brad Lander was arrested by masked ICE agents at federal immigration court.
• 🤝 He was released and spoke out at a press conference, stating he is "just fine" but lost a button.
• ⚖️ Lander expressed gratitude that charges were not being brought, acknowledging his access to legal counsel and due process.

Concerns for Immigrants Detained

• 💔 Lander highlighted the plight of individuals like Edgardo, who was detained and potentially stripped of due process rights.
• 🗣️ He noted instances where individuals whose native language was not understood were given translators in a different language, impacting their understanding of legal proceedings.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The speaker emphasized the normalization of family separation and due process rights violations.

The Role of Accompaniment and Witnessing

• 🚶‍♂️ Lander described his practice of accompanying families out of the courthouse, a tradition of non-violent witness.
• ❓ He explained his attempt to intervene by asking ICE agents for a warrant and badge numbers before Edgardo was detained.
• 🏛️ This action is framed as upholding the rule of law and constitutional democracy.

Political Context and Mayoral Race

• 🗳️ Lander connected the incident to the New York City mayoral race, criticizing current leadership for perceived betrayals of immigrant communities.
• 📣 He called for a mayor who will stand up to ICE and Donald Trump, insisting on due process and the city's sanctuary status.
• 🌟 Lander hopes New Yorkers will elect a mayor who honors the city's traditions and protects immigrant New Yorkers.

Addressing Criticisms and Future Actions

• 📢 Lander dismissed claims of the arrest being a political stunt, stating his intention was to accompany individuals and ensure their rights.
• 🗓️ He vowed to continue showing up and bearing witness, urging others to do the same.
• 📹 He encouraged people to watch the video to understand the events, asserting he did not assault an officer and will defend himself if charges are pursued.