Trump Administration Sues New Jersey Over Immigration Enforcement Order

The lawsuit challenges a state order restricting federal immigration enforcement activities on state property.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 11:09am

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The Trump administration has filed a lawsuit against New Jersey, challenging an executive order issued by Governor Mikie Sherrill that prohibits Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from making arrests in nonpublic areas of state property and prevents the use of state property as a staging or processing area for immigration enforcement activities.

Why it matters

This lawsuit represents a continuation of the Trump administration's strategy of challenging state and local policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. The outcome could significantly impact the scope of immigration enforcement within New Jersey.

The details

The Justice Department's lawsuit, filed Monday in federal court in Trenton, alleges that Governor Sherrill's order 'poses an intolerable obstacle' to immigration enforcement and 'directly regulates and discriminates' against the federal government. The lawsuit also notes that the order was issued after Sherrill took office on January 20.

  • The lawsuit was filed on February 25, 2026.
  • Governor Sherrill's executive order was issued on February 11, 2026.

The players

Trump Administration

The federal government under the leadership of former President Donald Trump, which is pursuing legal action against New Jersey over its immigration enforcement policies.

Governor Mikie Sherrill

The newly elected governor of New Jersey who issued an executive order restricting federal immigration enforcement activities on state property.

Jennifer Davenport

The acting attorney general of New Jersey, who has characterized the lawsuit as a 'pointless legal challenge' and affirmed the state's commitment to fighting the suit.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal agency responsible for immigration enforcement, which is impacted by the state's order restricting its activities on state property.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.