Ras J. Baraka has recently appeared in the news for his efforts to address social and economic issues in Newark, New Jersey, including initiatives to improve education, reduce crime, and promote economic development in the city. He has also been vocal about racial justice and police reform, advocating for community policing and accountability.
Born on April 9, 1970, Ras J. Baraka is an American educator, author, and politician who currently serves as the Mayor of Newark, New Jersey. Prior to becoming mayor, he was a member of the Municipal Council of Newark and the principal of Central High School in Newark. Baraka is known for his commitment to social justice and community empowerment, and he has been involved in various initiatives to improve the lives of Newark residents, particularly in underserved communities. He is also the son of the renowned poet and activist Amiri Baraka.
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Two women were murdered during unsupervised visits at Mule Creek State Prison, prompting investigations and calls for policy changes. Tania Thomas was killed in July 2024, followed by Stephanie Dowells in November 2024. Both incidents have raised serious questions about prison safety and the handling of violent offenders during family visits.
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As New Jersey's June 10 primary approaches, six Democratic candidates are vying for attention amid a tumultuous political landscape. Each candidate is attempting to distinguish themselves with unique messages, particularly in opposition to President Trump's policies. The outcome could influence midterm elections.
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Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested on May 9, 2025, during a protest against the Delaney Hall ICE detention facility. Baraka, who claims the facility lacks proper permits, faces trespassing charges after attempting to enter the facility with lawmakers. His arrest has drawn significant backlash from local officials and immigrant rights advocates.
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On May 9, 2025, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested for trespassing during a protest at the Delaney Hall Detention Center, where Congress members conducted an oversight visit. The incident escalated into a confrontation with ICE agents, leading to accusations of assault and political gamesmanship from both sides. The situation remains under investigation.
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A strike by New Jersey Transit engineers, which began on May 16, 2025, ended early on May 20 after a tentative agreement was reached between the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen and NJ Transit. The strike disrupted services for nearly 350,000 daily commuters, marking the first transit strike in over 40 years in the state. The agreement includes wage increases aimed at aligning salaries with those of engineers at other regional railroads.
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Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested by ICE agents while protesting at the Delaney Hall detention center, which he claims operates illegally. The incident involved confrontations with Congress members and has sparked debate over immigration enforcement and political accountability. This event highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policies in the U.S.
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Democratic Rep. LaMonica McIver faces federal charges for allegedly assaulting ICE agents during a protest at a Newark detention center. The incident, which involved Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, has ignited a political firestorm, with Democrats rallying to McIver's defense, claiming the charges are politically motivated.
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On May 22, 2025, the Justice Department filed a lawsuit against Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, and Hoboken, seeking to halt their sanctuary city policies. The suit claims these policies obstruct federal immigration enforcement, violating the Constitution's supremacy clause. Local officials have vowed to fight the lawsuit, asserting their commitment to inclusivity and community safety.
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Democratic leaders and immigrant advocates have condemned the use of masked ICE agents, likening them to secret police. This follows a spike in assaults against immigration officers. Meanwhile, tensions within ICE have escalated, with officials feeling pressured by the White House to increase detentions, raising concerns about federal overreach and safety protocols.
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Mikie Sherrill has secured the Democratic nomination for New Jersey governor, defeating five other candidates. She will face Republican Jack Ciattarelli in the November general election. The race has been influenced by local issues and the ongoing impact of Trump's presidency, with both candidates focusing on economic concerns.
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Newark Mayor Ras Baraka has filed a lawsuit against acting US Attorney Alina Habba and a Homeland Security agent, alleging false arrest and malicious prosecution stemming from a May 9 incident at an immigration detention facility. The lawsuit claims Baraka suffered reputational harm and emotional distress due to his arrest during a protest.
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As New York City's Democratic primary approaches, candidates are intensifying their focus on Donald Trump, using his presidency as a central theme in their campaigns. The final debate is set for tonight, with Andrew Cuomo and Zohran Mamdani leading the charge against federal immigration policies amid ongoing protests.
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U.S. Representative LaMonica McIver faces a three-count indictment for allegedly interfering with law enforcement during a May 9 oversight visit to Newark's Delaney Hall detention facility. McIver, who plans to plead not guilty, claims the charges are politically motivated. The indictment follows a chaotic confrontation involving ICE agents and local officials.
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Senator Alex Padilla was detained after interrupting a press conference held by DHS Secretary Kristi Noem in Los Angeles. Padilla confronted Noem about immigration policies amid ongoing protests against ICE raids. The incident has sparked significant political backlash and debate over law enforcement's treatment of elected officials.