Blakeman Vows to Expand Police Force, Strengthen ICE Partnership if Mamdani Wins NYC Race

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announced plans to increase police hiring and expand cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) if Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani wins the New York City mayoral election, as reported by The New York Post.

Blakeman, a Republican seeking re-election this month, made the pledge as part of an effort to attract residents and businesses from New York City to Nassau County, according to his spokesman, Chris Boyle.

“In the unfortunate event of a Mamdani win, [Blakeman] will hire more police officers, increase cooperation with [U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement], and actively encourage people and businesses to move to the safest county in America,” Boyle told The New York Post.

Boyle declined to elaborate on specific steps the county would take to enhance its existing collaboration with ICE. Nassau’s current agreement with the federal agency, signed in February, has drawn sharp criticism from Democrats and activist groups who have filed lawsuits opposing the program.

The county’s partnership with ICE includes deputizing 10 detectives to work directly with federal immigration officers and detaining approximately 3,000 individuals in its correctional facilities as part of ongoing efforts to support the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement policies.

While the arrangement has received praise from law enforcement advocates and residents concerned about rising crime in nearby New York City, it has been met with strong opposition from Democratic lawmakers and pro-migrant groups who favor “sanctuary” policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

Blakeman’s Democratic challenger, Nassau Legislator Seth Koslow, has vowed to terminate the county’s agreement with ICE if he wins the upcoming election. Koslow has argued that the program creates fear among immigrant communities and exposes the county to potential legal challenges.

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Mamdani, who represents Astoria, Queens, in the New York State Assembly, has gained significant traction in his mayoral campaign as the Democratic nominee. His platform includes support for sanctuary protections, reduced policing, and expanded city-funded migrant aid programs.

The New York City race has become increasingly competitive as former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican activist Curtis Sliwa both mount independent bids, drawing attention from voters dissatisfied with the city’s current direction.

Blakeman’s remarks come as suburban officials across the region voice concerns about potential spillover effects from New York City’s ongoing public safety and migrant crises.

Nassau County, which has branded itself as one of the “safest counties in America,” continues to emphasize its focus on law enforcement cooperation and local security.