Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, one of the 2025 Democrat gubernatorial candidates, recently ventured into Hunterdon County to lecture the rural county’s residents on the virtues of illegal immigration.
Warren County Commissioner James R. Kern III (R) responded in kind by attending Wednesday’s Newark City Council meeting to urge the state’s largest city to back law enforcement in purusing immigration enforcement.
“As elected officials, we have a responsibility to ensure public safety, fiscal responsibility, and the enforcement of the laws that govern our nation,” said Commissioner Kern. “New Jersey communities—including Newark—are directly impacted by policies that prevent law enforcement from addressing illegal immigration. It is critical that local governments come together to demand action from our state leadership. Our law enforcement officers should not be restricted from doing their jobs, especially when it comes to enforcing immigration laws that are in place to protect all residents. Failing to act places an undue burden on local governments and social services, jeopardizing the well-being of New Jersey residents.”
“Newark, like many other communities, has felt the impact of these policies. It is essential that we speak with one voice and demand that our state officials take responsibility,” Kern added. “New Jersey cannot afford to be a sanctuary for illegal immigration while our own citizens struggle with rising costs and strained public resources. Enforcing the law is not a radical idea—it is a fundamental responsibility of government.”
To the surprise of some, the Warren Republican’s remarks were met with applause from many in the blue city’s assembled audience.
Kern’s remarks begin at the 1 hour 21 minute mark:
