Despite coming in third in his run for governor, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, who was recently arrested at an ICE protest, is rumored to be a contender for New Jersey lieutenant governor. According to political strategists, Baraka’s arrest at an ICE facility has brought him national attention, with some Republicans calling it a symbol of Democratic chaos. Baraka’s campaign took full advantage of the moment, even beginning to send fundraising messages to supporters while he was still incarcerated, according to Politico. The arrest was part of a protest event where several public officials, including Democratic Reps. Robert Menendez, LaMonica McIver, and Bonnie Watson Coleman, were allegedly rushed past security through the gates of the facility with a group of protesters, according to officials from the Department of Homeland Security. The U.S. attorney’s office has since dismissed the case against Baraka ‘for the sake of moving forward.’ In a statement, Kenny Gonzalez, the executive director of the New Jersey Republican State Committee, noted that ‘the day that his arrest happened, [Baraka] really did become a hero of New Jersey’s Democrat Party.’ Baraka’s campaign used the incident to boost fundraising and support, with a text message from his campaign stating that ‘Ras was at Delaney Hall today demanding entry into the ICE detention center where Trump and MAGA extremists are illegally detaining people.’ The message went on to say, ‘Ras is ready to do whatever it takes to stop Trump and protect New Jerseyans from his extreme agenda. We need you with us now more than ever. Donate now.’ While some Republicans criticize Baraka’s actions, Democrats believe his performance in the primary was significant. However, Baraka’s arrest has also led to criticism regarding his focus on certain issues, such as immigration, over other pressing concerns like high property taxes and unsafe neighborhoods. Meanwhile, political strategists suggest that Mikie Sherrill, the new governor, may be considering Baraka for the lieutenant governor position, acknowledging his deep ties to urban communities and his ability to gain attention for the Democratic Party. Overall, the situation highlights the dynamic political landscape and the ongoing debates over immigration and governance in New Jersey.