February 11, 2026

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Governor Sherrill Takes Action to Protect New Jersey Residents from ICE Overreach

Community leaders have echoed Governor Sherrill’s call to stand up for New Jerseyans’ right to be safe from lawless federal actions. Here’s what New Jersey leaders are saying:

“New Jersey is one of the most diverse states in the nation and our small business are under siege from ICE’s economic disruption — putting lives and livelihoods at risk. Thank you, Governor Sherrill, for standing with the Hispanic community who contribute $127 billion in GDP annually,” said Carlos Medina, President and CEO of the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey. 

“New Jersey will not tolerate violations of civil rights or the targeting of vulnerable communities. Accountability, transparency, and the protection of Constitutional rights must remain non-negotiable. These measures taken today will help safeguard New Jerseyans from unlawful enforcement practices and clear overreach by ICE. While these are important steps forward, there is more work ahead to fully safeguard our communities and uphold the rights and dignity of every New Jerseyan,” said Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, Legislative Black Caucus Chair. 

“ICE is out of control, it is crucial we are doing everything we can here at the state level to curtail their abuses and hold them accountable. I am grateful for the actions Governor Sherrill took today and I look forward to continuing to work together to protect our immigrant communities,” said Assemblywoman Ellen Park. 

"Public safety is strongest when communities trust government. When residents are afraid to seek medical care, utilize childcare services, report crimes, or enter government buildings, public safety suffers. This Executive Order helps ensure that essential state spaces remain places of service, not fear. As Sheriff of Essex County, I have sworn an oath to uphold the Constitution. That oath applies to every resident, regardless of immigration status. I support Governor Mikie Sherrill’s Executive Order, which, alongside Attorney General Davenport’s reporting portal, reinforces a fundamental principle: access to non-public state facilities and the use of state property must follow the law. At the same time, our responsibility to public safety does not change. No one should put themselves in harm’s way. No one should interfere with law enforcement activity. If someone chooses to document an interaction, it should be done safely and without escalating a situation. In Essex County, we can protect constitutional rights while maintaining order and safety. That balance matters, and we will continue to lead with both in mind,” said Essex County Sheriff Amir D. Jones.

“As a former prosecutor, Gov. Sherrill knows that we are all more safe when there is trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Our Association supports appropriate actions to keep our residents and officers safe,” said New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police Andrew Caggiano.

“As ICE agents continue to terrorize communities, separate families, break into homes without judicial warrants, and threaten the health and wellness of our state, New Jerseyans are at risk. Today's Executive Order and actions announced by Gov. Sherrill are an important first step to uphold due process, protect New Jersey residents and state resources. It is a commitment that the State of New Jersey will not enable the federal government’s hostile and lawless actions. It is essential that New Jersey agencies and resources are accessible to all its residents. We know there will be no dignity for New Jersey residents until all of us can live and work free from federal overreach and targeting, no matter the color of our skin. Make the Road New Jersey will continue to organize until we realize that dream,” said Lauren Herman, Make the Road New Jersey Legal Director.