The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has affirmed its stance that Kilmar Abrego Garcia, an alleged MS-13 gang member and illegal immigrant, will never be on American streets again after being deported to El Salvador. This statement was made amidst significant backlash from U.S. Rep. Glenn Ivey, a Democrat from Maryland, who has criticized the agency for failing to provide due process to Garcia, with allegations that he was not given a fair legal hearing prior to his deportation.
Ivey attempted to visit Garcia on Memorial Day, only to find that the Salvadoran government had stonewalled his efforts, prompting his public criticism of the DHS. He urged Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to present evidence in court that Garcia is an illegal immigrant, with Democrats contending that Garcia was denied due process despite being in the United States for years. The DHS response on X indicated that they viewed advocacy for Garcia as an ‘appalling’ stance, especially given the alleged crimes committed by Garcia, including gang affiliation, human trafficking, and domestic abuse.
Since his deportation, several Democrats have attempted to visit Garcia in the El Salvadoran prison where he is being held to conduct wellness checks. These efforts have been met with resistance from the Salvadoran government, which has not granted them access. The Trump administration has cited evidence linking Garcia to MS-13 and human trafficking, as well as court documents detailing his alleged abuse of his wife, Jennifer Vasquez Sura. However, Democrats continue to argue that Garcia should have been given a fair opportunity to defend himself in court before being deported.
Ivey’s recent video message emphasized his frustration at not being allowed to check on Garcia, expressing that if there was no evidence to hide, the Salvadoran government should permit access. He highlighted the efforts made through formal requests and the involvement of the ambassador to the El Salvadoran government. His frustration highlights the ongoing political tension over immigration and due process, as Democrats push for transparency while DHS maintains its position on national security and legal procedures.