7 Million Views: Mamdani's Spanish ICE Guide Divides Political Leaders

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s Spanish-language video advising residents on how to handle encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has generated over 7 million views on the social media platform X. The post, released on Friday, outlines specific legal rights for individuals interacting with federal immigration agents and has triggered immediate criticism from conservative leaders across the country.

In the video, Mamdani stated that ICE officers cannot enter private spaces such as homes, schools, hospitals, or private areas of a workplace without a judicial warrant signed by a judge. He emphasized the right to remain silent and described the current climate as frightening for many people. The message was directed at New Yorkers generally, though it was delivered in Spanish.

Republican lawmakers responded quickly on social media. Senator Bernie Moreno of Ohio labeled the advice “treason.” Representative Brandon Gill of Texas argued that a mayor who became a citizen less than a decade ago should not be coaching immigrants in a foreign language on how to avoid deportation. Representative Nancy Mace of South Carolina wrote that anyone present in the city illegally is not a New Yorker. Senator Mike Lee of Utah noted that the video never urges viewers to abide by United States laws because it was not made for the benefit of the general American public.

Other figures joined the debate. Actor Dean Cain stated that legal residents have no reason to fear ICE and called the mayor dangerous. Fox News commentator Tomi Lahren described the guidance as an instruction for immigrants to evade the law. Tom Fitton, president of Judicial Watch, called the statement “dangerous incitement” filled with falsehoods, warning that it could put lives at risk.

Mamdani has historically opposed the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement agenda. During his campaign and early tenure, he advocated for abolishing ICE and stated that the New York Police Department would not assist the agency with civil immigration enforcement. He has characterized ICE operations as harmful to immigrant communities.

As mayor, Mamdani signed an executive order strengthening the city’s sanctuary policies. This directive limits cooperation between city agencies and federal immigration authorities. It also requires the protection of personal information and establishes protocols for handling ICE requests for access to city property or records. The order calls for expanded “know your rights” materials and training for city employees.

Fox News Digital reached out to Mamdani’s office for comment on the viral reaction.