(Crankers) Democratic New York mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani’s plan for undocumented immigrants may include spending over $100 million just on legal aid.
He also plans on blocking deportations and protecting immigrant communities by restricting cooperation with federal immigration authorities. After winning the Democratic primary in June 2025, he announced his intention to defy ICE raids, a position that has drawn both support and controversy.
Mamdani has pledged to “stop masked ICE agents from deporting our neighbors,” signaling a strong pushback against federal immigration enforcement.
In response to Mamdani’s vow, federal officials under the Trump administration have warned that federal law will take precedence over local policies. Former acting ICE director Tom Homan stated that federal enforcement efforts would be “doubling down” in New York City.
Mamdani has framed his stance as a necessary defense of immigrant communities against what he describes as “authoritarianism” and immigration crackdowns.
Mamdani’s stance has created a national controversy and a direct conflict with federal officials, with former President Trump threatening to have him arrested over his position.
His plan aligns with and seeks to strengthen New York City’s existing sanctuary city policies, which aim to limit local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
While supported by some Democrats, his position has drawn criticism from Republican figures, who have labeled him an extremist for his views on immigration.