Mamdani’s Spanish-language ICE guide sparks national debate

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani posted a video in Spanish on Friday offering residents advice on how to handle encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The message, published on X, accumulated more than 7 million views within hours. In the clip, Mamdani outlined specific rights for New Yorkers, stating that federal agents cannot enter homes, schools, hospitals, or private workplace areas without a judicial warrant.

The mayor also reminded viewers of their right to remain silent during these interactions. He described the current situation as frightening for many residents and offered practical tips for navigating federal enforcement. Mamdani’s office did not respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital on Friday.

Mamdani has maintained a hardline stance against federal immigration enforcement since entering office. During his campaign, he called for the abolition of ICE. After taking the oath of office, he stated that the New York Police Department would not assist the agency with civil immigration enforcement. He also signed an executive order to strengthen the city’s sanctuary policies. That order limits cooperation between city agencies and federal immigration authorities. It also protects personal data and establishes protocols for handling ICE requests for city records or property access.

Criticism from national Republican leaders began immediately after the video went live. Rep. Brandon Gill of Texas argued that the mayor is coaching illegal aliens on how to avoid lawful deportation. He noted that Mamdani became a citizen less than a decade ago. Sen. Mike Lee of Utah stated that the video never urges anyone to abide by U.S. laws. He claimed the message was not made for the benefit of American people.

Other officials used stronger language. Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina wrote that anyone here illegally is not a New Yorker. Sen. Bernie Moreno of Ohio labeled the action treason. Tomi Lahren, a Fox News commentator, said foreign born Democrats are instructing illegals to evade the law. Tom Fitton, president of Judicial Watch, called the statement dangerous incitement full of falsehoods. He warned that the guidance could put lives in danger.

Actor Dean Cain, who is not a member of Congress, joined the critique on social media. He posted that unless a person is here illegally, they have no reason to fear ICE. He described the mayor as dangerous. The post has since become a focal point for a national argument over the balance of state and federal power in immigration enforcement.