Story perspectives

DOJ Sues NJ Governor Over Immigration Access Restrictions

2/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill, challenging her executive order restricting federal immigration agents' access to state properties.
The DOJ argues the order violates the Supremacy Clause and obstructs federal law enforcement.
New Jersey Acting Attorney General Jen Davenport plans to defend the order, asserting the lawsuit misuses resources.
The case reflects ongoing tensions between state policies and federal immigration enforcement.

History

Historical Context

The 2012 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Arizona v. United States struck down key provisions of Arizona's SB 1070, which aimed to enforce immigration laws at the state level. This decision underscored the tension between state and federal immigration policies, a conflict echoed in New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill's recent executive order, which the DOJ argues obstructs federal law enforcement under the Supremacy Clause.

1 of 2

Story summary

The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill, challenging her executive order restricting federal immigration agents' access to state properties.
The DOJ argues the order violates the Supremacy Clause and obstructs federal law enforcement.
New Jersey Acting Attorney General Jen Davenport plans to defend the order, asserting the lawsuit misuses resources.
The case reflects ongoing tensions between state policies and federal immigration enforcement.

1 / 2