SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador — Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen traveled to El Salvador on Wednesday to advocate for the release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a man deported by the Trump administration in March despite court orders preventing his removal. Van Hollen met with Vice President Félix Ulloa, who stated that the Salvadoran government could not return Abrego Garcia to the United States and refused Van Hollen’s request to visit him in the gang prison where he is currently held. Van Hollen expressed frustration at the situation, questioning why El Salvador continues to detain a man without evidence of any wrongdoing.
The trip by Van Hollen has sparked controversy in the United States, with the Trump administration criticizing his actions while Democrats rally in support of Abrego Garcia. Despite President Donald Trump and Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele claiming they have no grounds to send him back, the U.S. Supreme Court has called for his return.
In response to accusations of ties to the MS-13 gang, Abrego Garcia’s attorneys have demanded evidence, emphasizing that he has never been charged with any gang-related crimes. Van Hollen condemned the Trump administration for what he described as dishonesty regarding Abrego Garcia’s case, noting that the facts have been reviewed by American courts.
The political divide over the deportation case has intensified, with Republicans highlighting the impact of crimes committed by individuals in the U.S. illegally and advocating for stricter immigration measures. Democrats, on the other hand, have criticized Trump’s handling of the situation, viewing it as a challenge to the authority of the courts.
Democratic lawmakers, including Sen. Cory Booker and Rep. Robert Garcia, are considering trips to El Salvador to investigate Abrego Garcia’s situation and work towards his return to the United States.
Amid renewed claims of gang affiliation by Trump officials, tensions have escalated, with some Republicans visiting the prison where Abrego Garcia is held to show support for the administration’s actions. The legal battle over Abrego Garcia’s deportation continues, with the government reluctant to disclose its plans regarding his repatriation.
The deportation case has become a focal point for human rights advocates concerned about the treatment of individuals in government custody. Van Hollen has pledged to continue advocating for Abrego Garcia’s release and remains committed to pursuing justice in the case.