NYC Mayor's Spanish ICE Guide Draws Sharp Rebuke From National Republicans

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani posted a video in Spanish on Friday offering specific advice to residents on how to handle encounters with federal immigration agents. The clip, which has since garnered more than 7 million views on X, outlines legal rights and practical steps for individuals during interactions with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

In the message, Mamdani stated that ICE cannot enter private spaces such as homes, schools, or hospitals without a judicial warrant signed by a judge. He emphasized the right to remain silent and described the current climate as frightening for many people. The mayor has positioned himself against the Trump administration's immigration agenda and signed an executive order earlier this year to strengthen the city's sanctuary policies.

The post triggered immediate criticism from Republican leaders across the country who argued the video encouraged residents to evade federal law. Representative Brandon Gill of Texas noted that Mamdani became a citizen less than a decade ago and is now coaching residents in a foreign language. He suggested this approach should be insulting to American citizens who have been in the country longer.

Senator Mike Lee of Utah pointed out that the video never urged viewers to abide by United States laws. He stated that the guidance was not made for the benefit of the people of the United States. Senator Bernie Moreno of Ohio used a single word to summarize his reaction, labeling the mayor's actions as treason.

Other critics included Representative Nancy Mace of South Carolina, who asserted that illegal residents are not New Yorkers. Fox News commentator Tomi Lahren argued that foreign-born Democrats were instructing residents on how to evade the law to remain in the country. Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton called the statement dangerous incitement that could put lives in jeopardy.

Mamdani's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital. The mayor's stance follows his campaign pledge to abolish ICE and his administration's decision to limit NYPD assistance in civil immigration enforcement. The new executive order also requires city agencies to protect personal information and expand rights training for employees.

The debate highlights the tension between local sanctuary policies and federal enforcement powers. Mamdani's guidance serves as a direct instruction for city residents, while national GOP leaders frame the effort as a political move that complicates the removal process.