Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) is no stranger to speaking out — but her latest stand against U.S. immigration enforcement could land her in legal trouble, according to a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson.
Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at DHS, said during a Monday night appearance on Fox News that AOC may face arrest if she engages in the same kind of direct action that recently led to the detainment of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka.
“If she trespasses or assaults law enforcement, just like others have, she could face the same consequences,” McLaughlin explained. “Some lawmakers claim it’s just oversight — but interference is a serious matter.”
The controversy erupted after Mayor Baraka attempted to enter a federal immigration detention facility in New Jersey without prior clearance. DHS claims he joined protesters in trying to force entry, which ended in a physical clash with ICE agents. Baraka was arrested for trespassing after allegedly ignoring repeated warnings to leave the area. Reps. Rob Menendez Jr., Bonnie Watson Coleman, and LaMonica McIver were reportedly with him at the time.
AOC responded via Instagram, strongly criticizing DHS and warning that there would be “consequences” if her fellow lawmakers were harmed during the confrontation.
“If you touch Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman or any of the reps present, we will have a problem,” she said in a passionate video message. That video is now being scrutinized as potential evidence in defense of ICE’s actions.
According to ICE, bodycam footage from the encounter shows Rep. McIver allegedly assaulting an officer — a claim that has only added to the already heated debate.
McLaughlin also defended the use of the Delaney Hall facility, saying the individuals being held there are “not just any undocumented immigrants — they’re suspected or convicted of serious crimes, including sexual assault, gang activity, and terrorism.”
She added that DHS has procedures for visits and tours, which require 24-hour notice. “Had they followed protocol, we’d have gladly arranged something. But this was not about oversight — it was political theater,” McLaughlin said.
As tensions between progressive lawmakers and immigration officials continue to rise, the situation highlights a growing divide over how far elected officials can go in protest — and when that activism crosses a legal line.