Mayoral candidate detained after linking arms with immigrant facing federal deportation proceedings
New York, N.Y. – New York City Comptroller and Democratic mayoral candidate Brad Lander has been arrested by federal agents at an immigration court after he linked arms with a person who authorities were attempting to detain. The incident occurred on June 17, 2025, at the federal courthouse at 26 Federal Plaza in Lower Manhattan.
Federal Agents Use Force Against Elected Official
“While escorting a defendant out of immigration court at 26 Federal Plaza, Brad was taken by masked agents and detained by ICE,” Dora Pekec, Lander’s campaign spokesperson, said in a statement. Video footage shows multiple federal agents, many wearing masks, forcibly removing Lander from the courthouse. As he was placed in handcuffs, Lander could be heard protesting to the officers about their actions.
The arrest represents an escalation in tensions between New York City officials and federal immigration authorities under President Donald Trump‘s renewed immigration enforcement policies. He was detained after a series of dramatic confrontations between federal law enforcement and Democrats opposing President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.
Background of Immigration Court Advocacy
Lander has been going to immigration court on separate occasions for several weeks after a number of undocumented immigrants, including a Bronx public school student named Dylan, were arrested by masked ICE agents after showing up to routine hearings. The comptroller had been serving as an advocate for individuals facing deportation proceedings, attempting to ensure their rights were protected during court appearances.
The 54-year-old Democratic politician, who was elected comptroller in 2021, has made immigration advocacy a central part of his mayoral campaign platform. His presence at the courthouse was part of ongoing efforts to support immigrant families navigating the federal court system.
Political Reaction and Implications
“Masked ICE agents just violently arrested a U.S. citizen —and elected official — for simply asking to see a judicial warrant,” Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine wrote in his X post. “This is authoritarianism. Comptroller Lander must be released immediately.” The arrest drew immediate condemnation from fellow New York officials, including Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, who joined calls for Lander’s immediate release.
The incident highlights the growing confrontation between local New York City officials and federal immigration enforcement under the Trump administration‘s renewed focus on deportations. New York City Comptroller and mayoral candidate Brad Lander was detained for several hours after being arrested at an immigration court on Tuesday, the latest politician opposed to U.S. President Donald Trump‘s immigration raids to get caught up with law enforcement.
Release and Future Actions
Lander was released several hours after his arrest without being charged. Lander said he remains committed to showing up for immigrant families in court and encouraged peaceful protest. The comptroller’s office confirmed that he would continue his advocacy work despite the arrest.
The arrest comes as I.C.E. operations have intensified across the country, with federal agents conducting raids and enforcement actions in locations including schools, hospitals, and courthouses. New York has declared itself a sanctuary city, creating additional friction with federal immigration authorities.
As one of several candidates seeking the Democratic mayoral nomination, Lander’s arrest may impact his campaign trajectory. His supporters view the incident as evidence of his commitment to defending immigrant rights, while critics question whether elected officials should interfere with federal law enforcement operations.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and I.C.E. have not yet provided detailed comments on the specific circumstances surrounding Lander’s arrest or whether additional charges may be filed.
75-Word Summary
New York City Comptroller and mayoral candidate Brad Lander was arrested by federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents on June 17, 2025, at federal immigration court in Manhattan. The arrest occurred after Lander linked arms with an individual facing deportation proceedings. He was released hours later without charges.
