Rep. LaMonica McIver, 40, appeared in federal court Wednesday to continue her defense against charges of assaulting federal law enforcement officers. McIver, who is pregnant, has maintained her innocence for over a year, arguing she did not engage in wrongdoing during a confrontation at New Jersey's Delaney Hall immigration facility in May 2025.
McIver faces three counts of forcibly assaulting, resisting, opposing, impeding, intimidating, and interfering with federal agents. Her indictment last year indicates she could face up to 17 years in prison if convicted. The congresswoman has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The incident occurred during a visit McIver conducted with fellow lawmakers to the immigration facility. She was captured on video during a clash with law enforcement officials at the site.
Previously, an attempt by House Republicans to censure McIver failed after seven Republican members broke party lines and voted against the measure. Following the failed censure attempt, McIver stated the move was a "baseless, partisan effort to shut [her] up" and vowed to continue serving constituents, not play political games.
McIver, a first-term congresswoman, is seeking reelection in New Jersey's 10th congressional district in the upcoming November elections. The district is considered a 'Solid Democrat' seat, according to the Cook Political Report, suggesting a strong likelihood of her reelection. She has been an outspoken critic of former President Donald Trump and his administration's policies. During a 2025 interview, McIver expressed concerns that Trump's administration sought to escalate tensions by potentially deploying military forces in cities. She has also voiced her belief that the administration aims to suppress dissent and target vulnerable populations.