Background on Deportation Case

Last month, a federal judge and the Supreme Court instructed the U.S. government to facilitate the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, 29, after it was revealed that he was wrongfully deported due to an “administrative error.” The Department of Justice has claimed that Garcia is allegedly connected to the MS-13 gang, a statement that has been disputed in court.

Senator’s Visit to El Salvador

Senator Van Hollen arrived in El Salvador on Wednesday and attempted to visit CECOT prison, where Garcia is reportedly detained. Accompanied by Chris Newman, the attorney representing Garcia’s family, Van Hollen sought to assess Garcia’s condition firsthand. However, guards at the prison prevented them from proceeding further, despite Van Hollen’s insistence on their reason for visiting.

In a social media video shared by Van Hollen, he expressed his disappointment, stating, “These soldiers were ordered to prevent us from going any farther from this spot. I understand we’re about three kilometers now from CECOT, and as you can see, they’re letting other cars go by, but they stopped us because they’re under orders not to allow us to proceed to check on the well-being of Kilmar Abrego Garcia.”

Political Reactions

Following his visit, Senator Van Hollen disclosed that he had previously requested access through the U.S. Embassy, which subsequently relayed his request to the Salvadoran government. He noted that during his discussions with the Vice President of El Salvador, he emphasized the intent of his visit was to check on Garcia’s health and welfare.

Republicans in Congress have shared photographs from inside the prison on social media, implying a disparity in access to the facility between party lines.

Response from the White House

The White House criticized Van Hollen’s visit, echoing the Department of Justice’s claims that Garcia is affiliated with a gang. Despite these assertions, no formal charges have been levied against him regarding gang activity, and his alleged association with MS-13 has faced legal challenges.

In light of the federal court’s orders regarding Garcia’s return, the DOJ has indicated plans to appeal the ruling, complicating the situation further.

Statements from the Administration

President Donald Trump recently addressed the matter, asserting that his administration’s objective is to remove criminals from the U.S. He expressed confusion over judicial authority superseding presidential actions in deportation cases, stating, “I don’t see how judges can take that authority away from a president.”