New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill issued a statement addressing public safety concerns outside Delaney Hall, citing an increased Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) surge as a threat to the community. Governor Sherrill emphasized her commitment to safety, saying, "My top priority is keeping New Jerseyans and our communities safe - and an increased ICE surge in the area outside of Delaney Hall is a threat to public safety. We know that lives would be at risk were that to happen. And I will not accept that risk."
In response, the New Jersey State Police Public Safety Response Team secured the area last night. Governor Sherrill explained this action was "absolutely necessary to protect public safety, and avoid escalation from ICE," while affirming residents' First Amendment rights to peaceful protest.
Governor Sherrill urged all protestors to remain peaceful in designated safe areas and work to de-escalate tensions. She called for a focus on advocating for improved conditions for detainees and their families, ultimately aiming for the closure of Delaney Hall.