Senator Van Hollen Pursues Justice for Wrongfully Deported Maryland Man
On the first day of his trip to El Salvador, Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen faced hurdles in his attempt to assist Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident who was erroneously deported to El Salvador. Unable to secure a meeting with Abrego Garcia, Van Hollen nevertheless connected with El Salvador’s Vice President, Félix Ulloa, in hopes of advocating for Garcia’s return to the United States.
Background on Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s Deportation
Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s wrongful deportation has initiated significant legal proceedings. A federal judge had previously mandated that the federal government ensure his return from the CECOT prison, a supermax facility in El Salvador. Notably, the Trump administration escalated the case to the Supreme Court, which also directed actions for Garcia’s repatriation.
Senatorial Engagement in El Salvador
During his meeting with Vice President Ulloa, Senator Van Hollen expressed his concern for Garcia’s well-being and sought to arrange a meeting with El Salvador’s President, Nayib Bukele. However, Ulloa indicated that more time was needed to facilitate an in-person meeting with Garcia. Upon suggesting a potential return the following week, Van Hollen was informed that a meeting could not be guaranteed. Additionally, the vice president recommended that inquiries regarding Garcia’s situation be referred to the U.S. Embassy.
“We have an unjust situation here,” Van Hollen stated at a livestreamed press conference, emphasizing that the Trump administration has misrepresented the facts concerning Abrego Garcia’s case, which has been thoroughly reviewed by American courts.
The Legal Status of Kilmar Abrego Garcia
Senator Van Hollen reiterated that Garcia should not have faced deportation, citing a “withholding of removal” order that was granted by an immigration judge based on the potential threat to his life if returned to El Salvador. This legal ruling acknowledges Garcia’s status as legally residing in the U.S.
Controversy Over Alleged Gang Affiliations
The Trump administration has labeled Garcia as a member of the notorious MS-13 gang—a claim his family and legal representatives vehemently contest. Garcia has no criminal record in any nation, and Van Hollen clarified, “If you listen to President Trump and the Trump administration, you would think that U.S. courts have found that Mr. Abrego Garcia is part of MS-13, but they have not found that.” He pointed out that a federal court recently determined there was no substantial evidence supporting claims of Garcia’s gang affiliation.
Continuing Challenges in El Salvador
During his discussions, Van Hollen inquired why Garcia remains detained at CECOT, particularly in light of the absence of evidence linking him to any gang activities. The vice president mentioned that the Trump administration was financially incentivizing El Salvador to maintain Garcia’s detention.
When pressed on the ability to release Garcia, Ulloa referenced a previous statement by President Bukele suggesting that the country cannot facilitate Garcia’s unlawful return to the U.S.
Conclusion
Senator Van Hollen’s ongoing efforts highlight the complexities surrounding immigration, justice, and diplomatic relations as he works on behalf of Kilmar Abrego Garcia. The case remains at a critical juncture, drawing attention to the broader issues of wrongful deportation and the rights of immigrants.