NEW YORK — The controversial deportation of U.S. Army veteran Godfrey Wade to Jamaica has catalyzed his attorney’s decision to pursue congressional office, transforming a legal battle into a political movement for immigration justice. Tony Kozycki, Wade’s legal representative, announced his campaign for Georgia’s 7th Congressional District in the 2026 mid-term elections following what he describes as systemic failures in Wade’s case.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) executed Wade’s deportation last month despite Kozycki’s extensive efforts to secure judicial review and congressional support for the honorably discharged veteran. The attorney’s congressional bid emerged after lawmakers declined to support a private bill drafted by Kozycki Law LLC that would have mandated judicial reconsideration of Wade’s case.
‘Godfrey’s case is the catalyst for my campaign,’ Kozycki stated. ‘Having worked closely with him and his family, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the system failed someone who served this nation honorably.’
Wade, a 65-year-old legal resident since 1975, was deported based on a 2014 removal order originating from a bounced check and an assault charge. Critical court notices were allegedly sent to an incorrect address by Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE), preventing Wade from contesting the order. The check-related financial obligations were fully satisfied, and the assault charge involved no allegations of physical violence according to legal documentation.
Kozycki emphasizes the case exemplifies broader systemic issues: ‘We merely sought judicial review—a fundamental right denied to someone who defended this country. With Wade deported, his appeal could take years while detained individuals receive priority.’
The attorney, himself an Army veteran, will run as a Democratic candidate against incumbent Republican Representative Rich McCormick, whom he criticizes for insufficient action despite McCormick’s veteran status. Wade’s deportation has generated significant concern within Jamaican immigrant communities and advocacy groups.
Carmeta Albarus of the Family Unification and Resettlement Initiative (FURI) condemned the action as ‘cruel,’ noting her organization facilitated Wade’s initial communication with his family upon arrival in Jamaica. The case has intensified scrutiny over citizenship requirements, with Kozycki observing that naturalization would have prevented deportation despite Wade’s legal residency status.
Congressman David Scott (GA-13) had requested DHS delay Wade’s deportation pending appeal but received no response until four days after the veteran’s removal. Scott affirmed that Wade ‘served this country honorably and was entitled to due process,’ underscoring the constitutional concerns raised by this case.