NEWARK, N.J. (AP) — A federal judge overseeing the prosecution of U.S. Rep. LaMonica McIver has ordered the government to remove several social media posts that he described as 'prejudicial' to the congresswoman. The ruling came during the pretrial hearing for McIver, who faces charges stemming from her actions outside a New Jersey immigration detention facility.
U.S. District Judge Jamel Semper did not issue a ruling from the bench but expressed concerns regarding nine specific posts from the Department of Homeland Security’s X account that labeled McIver's congressional visit as a 'reckless stunt by sanctuary politicians.' Semper highlighted the potential impact these statements could have on the fairness of McIver's trial, affirming, 'The prejudicial nature of it is self-evident.'
The charges against McIver involve accusations of assaulting and impeding federal immigration officers during a protest at Newark’s Delaney Hall Detention Facility on May 9. Following her visit, McIver was indicted on multiple counts, with two charges carrying significant prison time.
In her defense, McIver’s legal team argues that the posts by Homeland Security could undermine her ability to secure a fair trial. Additionally, the judge has compelled the government to turn over previously withheld video footage that defense attorneys assert exists and is relevant to the case.
McIver, a Democrat representing Newark, pleaded not guilty and has maintained that the ongoing legal proceedings will not hinder her legislative duties. 'This process has not stopped me from doing my job,' she stated outside the courthouse on Wednesday.
During the court session, McIver was accompanied by several allies, including fellow Democratic Representatives and Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, who was arrested during the protest and has called the charges against him a malicious prosecution.
The case against McIver reflects broader national tensions surrounding immigration policy and oversight by Congressional representatives, particularly in relation to federal immigration facilities. Congress passed legislation affirming the rights of lawmakers to conduct unscheduled visits to these facilities as part of their oversight responsibilities.
