I just spoke with Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen following his recent visit to El Salvador, where he met with Kilmar Abrego Garcia. In our conversation, I asked about the purpose of his trip, how it was funded, and—most importantly—what steps he’s taking to protect the due process rights of all deported individuals, not just Kilmar.
What Senator Van Hollen revealed was stunning.
For the first time publicly, he told me that during his visit, he asked the Vice President of El Salvador whether they had any evidence supporting the Trump Administration’s claim that Kilmar is a terrorist. The Vice President admitted they did not—and said they were simply following the Trump Administration’s lead. Why? Because the U.S. is paying El Salvador $15 million to detain migrants like Kilmar.
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Even more interesting: while El Salvador’s President Bukele insists that once someone enters the CECOT prison they never leave—because it’s reserved for "the worst of the worst"—Kilmar has been quietly transferred to a different facility.
That move alone raises serious questions.
Stay tuned.
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