Democrat announces he is flying to visit deported migrant in prison: ‘We need to make sure he’s okay’

Democratic leaders are deeply concerned about the situation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran migrant who was deported to a maximum-security prison in El Salvador on suspicion of being a member of the MS-13 gang. Despite his attorneys’ claims that he has no ties to the gang, Abrego Garcia was sent to the Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT), where hundreds of suspected criminals and gang members are held.

Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Maryland, has announced his intention to visit Abrego Garcia in prison, expressing outrage over his deportation and emphasizing the urgency of securing his release. Van Hollen criticized the Trump administration for its role in the situation, accusing them of “illegally abducting” Abrego Garcia and calling for his immediate return to the U.S.

In a joint letter, Reps. Maxwell Frost, D-Florida, and Robert Garcia, D-California, also expressed their readiness to travel to El Salvador to visit Abrego Garcia and other deported migrants at CECOT. They highlighted their concerns about the wellbeing of these individuals, including Andry José Hernández Romero, a gay makeup artist who was sent to the prison on suspicion of gang membership.

Frost, known for his progressive stance on issues, condemned the Trump administration for what he described as a “government-funded kidnapping rampage” that led to Abrego Garcia’s wrongful deportation. He emphasized the need for immediate intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of the deported migrants in El Salvador.

The Supreme Court’s decision to facilitate Abrego Garcia’s return from CECOT has raised hopes for his release, but the ultimate decision lies with the authorities in El Salvador. Democratic leaders are determined to advocate for Abrego Garcia and others in similar situations, emphasizing the importance of upholding their rights and ensuring their safe return to the U.S.

As the situation unfolds, Democratic leaders are committed to taking action to address the plight of deported migrants like Abrego Garcia and to ensure that their voices are heard and their rights protected. Their efforts to visit CECOT and conduct welfare checks on the imprisoned individuals reflect their dedication to upholding justice and supporting those who have been unjustly targeted in the immigration system.