NYC Mayor's Spanish-Only ICE Advice Sparks 'Treason' Criticism

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani faced intense online backlash on Friday after releasing a video in Spanish that instructed residents on how to handle encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The clip, which the socialist mayor posted on X, quickly amassed more than 7 million views. In the video, Mamdani stated that ICE agents cannot enter private spaces such as homes, schools, hospitals, or private areas of a workplace without a judicial warrant signed by a judge.

The mayor emphasized that New Yorkers have the right to remain silent during these interactions. He acknowledged that these are frightening times for many people and offered specific best practices for dealing with federal agents. Mamdani has consistently positioned himself against the Trump administration's immigration agenda, calling for the abolition of ICE and stating that the NYPD would not assist the agency with civil enforcement.

Conservative critics on social media reacted swiftly, characterizing the video as the mayor coaching individuals on how to obstruct federal law. Representative Brandon Gill of Texas argued that it should be insulting to Americans that the mayor, a citizen for less than a decade, is instructing illegal aliens in a foreign language on how to avoid lawful deportation. Actor Dean Cain posted that anyone not here illegally has no reason to fear ICE, calling the mayor dangerous.

Senator Mike Lee of Utah noted that the video never urges anyone to abide by U.S. laws, claiming it was not made for the benefit of the United States. Representative Nancy Mace of South Carolina stated that if a person is here illegally, they are not a New Yorker. Senator Bernie Moreno of Ohio simply described the move as treason.

Fox News commentator Tomi Lahren criticized foreign born Democrats for instructing illegals on how to evade the law and remain in the country. Tom Fitton, president of Judicial Watch, called the statement dangerous incitement filled with disturbing falsehoods, warning that it could put lives in danger. Fox News Digital reached out to Mamdani’s office for comment on the controversy.

As mayor, Mamdani signed an executive order to strengthen New York City’s sanctuary policies. The order directs city agencies to limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities and protect personal information. It also establishes protocols for handling ICE requests to access city property or records. The order calls for expanded know your rights materials and training for city employees.