Overview
- Mamdani released the Dec. 7 video to the city’s roughly three million immigrants days after a federal operation in Manhattan drew protests.
- He instructed residents to deny entry to private spaces unless agents present a warrant signed by a judge and to scrutinize administrative forms that can resemble warrants.
- He highlighted the right to remain silent and to repeatedly ask “Am I free to go?” while noting ICE officers are legally permitted to lie during encounters.
- He said people may lawfully record ICE actions without interfering and urged calm conduct that avoids resistance or obstruction.
- The guidance prompted immediate criticism from conservative commentators and signals looming conflict with President Trump’s intensified enforcement as Mamdani prepares to take office on Jan. 1.