Context:

Brad Lander, the New York City comptroller and mayoral candidate, was arrested by ICE agents at an immigration courthouse in Lower Manhattan while attempting to escort a migrant away from arrest. The incident, captured on video, shows Lander questioning the agents' authority and demanding to see a judicial warrant. ICE claims Lander assaulted and impeded law enforcement officers, but no formal charges were made immediately. The arrest spurred backlash from Democratic figures, including Governor Kathy Hochul, who demanded his release, while others accused Lander of staging a publicity stunt. Lander, who has been vocal about protecting immigrants and New York City's sanctuary laws, denied any premeditated intent and expressed regret for not successfully aiding the migrant named Edgardo, who was detained by ICE.

Dive Deeper:

• Brad Lander was arrested at a New York City immigration courthouse after trying to help a migrant avoid arrest by ICE agents, an action that led to allegations of assault against law enforcement officers, although he was not formally charged at the time.

• The arrest occurred amid heightened tensions and increased ICE activity at the courthouse, where migrants have been unexpectedly arrested following court appearances, a tactic that has sparked protests and drawn criticism from Democratic officials.

• Lander, who is running for mayor, has been a strong advocate for immigrant rights, emphasizing the importance of sanctuary laws and calling for increased legal support for immigrants without representation facing deportation.

• The incident was met with swift political reactions, with some Democrats, including Governor Kathy Hochul, condemning the arrest and calling for Lander's release, while some Republicans criticized it as a performative act.

• Lander's arrest is part of a broader pattern of confrontations involving Democratic officials and federal agents amidst ongoing debates over immigration enforcement and deportation policies under the Trump administration.

• This event unfolded just a week before the Democratic primary for New York City's mayor, adding a layer of political complexity to Lander's campaign and drawing significant media attention.

• Lander's wife, Meg Barnette, highlighted the fear and injustice faced by migrants during the courthouse proceedings, underscoring the emotional and human impact of the ongoing immigration enforcement practices.