Governor Kathy Hochul highlighted the state’s financial support for immigrant legal services in a recent press conference, emphasizing the $50 million allocated for this purpose. She made the comments after city Comptroller Brad Lander was detained by ICE at federal headquarters.

Hochul stated, “(Immigrants) lack attention and legal representation, which is why the state has provided $50 million for legal aid,” despite the fact that the actual budget currently includes $64.2 million for immigration legal services. She sought to frame this as a significant investment, but critics point out it was already secured in the current budget, signed into law on May 9.

During the event, Lander, who was assisting migrants after court hearings, was detained by federal agents. The incident prompted outrage among progressives, with Hochul publicly defending Lander and dismissing the arrest as “bulls–t.” Lander was released after several hours when charges against him were dropped. Although he faced allegations of assaulting law enforcement, video evidence suggests these claims may not be substantiated.

In addition to commenting on legal funding, Hochul’s office clarified that there was no new appropriation; the funding was already in place. She later accompanied Lander out of federal building, supporting him during his release.