NYC mayor's Spanish ICE guide draws 7 million views and sharp rebuke

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's post on social media reached 7 million views on Friday.

The video, delivered in Spanish, provided instructions for residents on how to handle encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.

Mamdani stated that ICE cannot enter private spaces such as homes, schools, or hospitals without a judicial warrant. He told viewers they have the right to remain silent. He described the current period as frightening for many people.

Conservative politicians responded quickly on X. Rep. Brandon Gill of Texas said it was insulting that a mayor who became a citizen less than a decade ago was coaching residents in a foreign language. He argued the post encouraged illegal aliens to avoid lawful deportation.

Sen. Mike Lee of Utah noted that the video never urged anyone to abide by U.S. laws. Sen. Bernie Moreno of Ohio simply labeled the message "Treason."

Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina posted that anyone there illegally is not a New Yorker. Actor Dean Cain said people do not need to fear ICE unless they are there illegally. Fox News commentator Tomi Lahren criticized the mayor for instructing illegal residents on how to evade the law.

Tom Fitton, president of Judicial Watch, called the statement dangerous incitement. He said the post could put lives in danger.

Mamdani has positioned himself against the Trump administration's immigration agenda. He previously called for abolishing ICE and said the NYPD would not assist with civil enforcement.

The mayor recently signed an executive order to strengthen city sanctuary policies. The order limits city agency cooperation with federal immigration authorities. It also directs agencies to protect personal information and provide rights training for employees.

Mamdani's office did not immediately return a request for comment.