Carville Claims Race Drove DOJ’s Charges Against Rep. McIver in ICE Protest Clash

Democratic strategist James Carville stirred controversy Tuesday, alleging that race played a significant role in the Department of Justice's decision to charge New Jersey Rep. LaMonica McIver with assaulting federal officers outside an ICE facility. Speaking on MSNBC’s The Beat with Ari Melber, Carville called the charges a line crossed by the Trump administration, hinting at deeper, troubling motivations.

“I think they went after her because of her race,” Carville stated bluntly, admitting he lacked proof but insisting it aligns with the administration’s divisive rhetoric. He pointed to their focus on “us versus them” narratives, suggesting a white congressperson might have avoided arrest in similar circumstances.

The charges stem from an incident earlier this month at the Delaney Hall detention center, where McIver, alongside two other Congress members, protested what they described as mandated oversight duties. Authorities claim McIver physically engaged with ICE agents, allegedly striking one with her forearm and attempting to restrain another. After Newark Mayor Ras Baraka’s arrest at the same protest, McIver reportedly pushed another officer.

White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson defended the charges, stating, “No one can assault ICE agents and walk free, regardless of their position. President Trump stands firm on upholding law enforcement and accountability.” Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba echoed this, emphasizing impartial justice: “No one is above the law—politician or not.”

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem doubled down in an X post, vowing to prosecute anyone assaulting law enforcement, regardless of status. Meanwhile, Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., escalated the matter by introducing a House resolution to expel McIver, signaling a deepening political rift.

Carville framed the charges as a distraction from economic woes, arguing the administration is shifting focus from policy failures. While the justice system moves forward, the debate over McIver’s charges exposes raw tensions over race, power, and accountability in today’s polarized climate.