Sen. Chris Van Hollen in El Salvador: Advocates for Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s Release

Senator Chris Van Hollen is traveling to El Salvador to advocate for the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly deported. In a video from the airport, Van Hollen emphasized his commitment to securing Garcia’s release, stating his intent to confront the Trump administration and El Salvadoran officials.

Representing Maryland, where Garcia lived, Van Hollen expressed hope to communicate with government representatives and assess Garcia’s current situation. The Justice Department has acknowledged the erroneous deportation, with a judge mandating Garcia’s return—a ruling later upheld by the Supreme Court.

Despite this, the Trump administration has been criticized for inaction, leading Van Hollen to highlight the significance of due process and adherence to the rule of law. Garcia has faced accusations of gang affiliation, which his lawyers dispute, as he has no pending criminal charges in either the U.S. or El Salvador.

A U.S. District Judge has expressed skepticism about the evidence used to justify his deportation, describing it as based on flimsy and uncorroborated claims. The White House maintains compliance with court orders but has dismissed the backlash from Democrats as sensationalism.

Van Hollen’s solo mission underscores the urgency and complexity of Garcia’s case amidst ongoing debates about immigration policy and legal rights.