Additional Coverage:
- Goldman knocks Habba over McIver prosecution: ‘Trash’ (thehill.com)
Goldman Slams Charges Against Rep. McIver as “Trash”
Representative Dan Goldman (D-NY) has sharply criticized Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba for her prosecution of fellow Democratic Representative LaMonica McIver (D-NJ), calling the assault charges against her “trash” and suggesting the prosecution is politically motivated.
The charges stem from an incident at an ICE detention facility in New Jersey, which Rep. McIver and two colleagues were attempting to inspect under their Congressional oversight authority. Newark Mayor Ras Baraka (D), who does not possess the same authority, was also present and initially charged with trespassing, although that charge was later dropped.
During an appearance on MSNBC’s “The Weeknight,” Rep. Goldman questioned the legitimacy of the charges against Rep.
McIver, stating that the prosecutor will soon have to present evidence to a grand jury. He expressed concern that the case mirrors a situation in the Southern District of New York, where multiple prosecutors resigned rather than pursue what they considered to be politically motivated charges.
The criminal complaint alleges Rep. McIver assaulted two Homeland Security Investigations agents.
However, body camera footage of the incident has proven inconclusive. Rep.
McIver maintains her innocence, asserting that ICE agents created an “unnecessary and unsafe confrontation” while arresting Mayor Baraka and that the charges against her are politically driven.
Rep. Goldman drew a parallel to the controversy surrounding the dropped bribery charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, alleging a potential quid pro quo with the administration. He went on to criticize Habba, a former personal attorney for President Trump, calling her a “hack” and questioning her impartiality in the case.
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- Goldman knocks Habba over McIver prosecution: ‘Trash’ (thehill.com)