Viral Spanish Video: Mamdani Faces Backlash Over ICE Advice

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani sparked a national controversy on Friday after publishing a Spanish-language video on X with specific instructions for residents interacting with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The post, which racked up more than 7 million views in a matter of hours, frames the guidance as essential knowledge for New Yorkers during what Mamdani described as frightening times.

In the video, Mamdani states that ICE officers cannot enter private spaces such as homes, schools, hospitals, or workplace areas without a judicial warrant signed by a judge. He further advises residents that they have the right to remain silent and offers best practices for handling encounters with federal agents. The socialist mayor has long positioned himself against the current administration's immigration agenda, previously calling for the abolition of ICE and asserting that the NYPD would not assist with civil immigration enforcement.

The post triggered immediate criticism from conservative figures who argued the mayor was coaching residents on how to avoid lawful deportation. Rep. Brandon Gill of Texas posted on X that it should insult Americans for the mayor to coach illegal aliens in a foreign language. Gill noted that Mamdani became a citizen less than a decade ago.

Actor Dean Cain joined the critique, stating that anyone here illegally has no reason to fear ICE. He described the mayor as dangerous. Sen. Mike Lee of Utah pointed out that the video never urges anyone to abide by U.S. laws, adding that it was not made for the benefit of the United States. Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina offered a blunt rebuttal, writing that if a person is here illegally, they are not a New Yorker.

Sen. Bernie Moreno of Ohio used a single word to characterize the move: Treason. Fox News commentator Tomi Lahren criticized the 2026 scenario of foreign-born Democrats instructing illegals on how to evade the law. Tom Fitton, president of Judicial Watch, labeled the statement dangerous incitement full of disturbing falsehoods. He warned that the advice could put lives in danger.

Mamdani’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital. As mayor, Mamdani signed an executive order earlier this year to strengthen the city's sanctuary policies. That order limits cooperation between city agencies and federal immigration authorities while protecting personal information. It also mandates expanded know your rights materials and training for city employees.