Pritzker moves to boycott El Salvador for helping Trump deport suspected MS-13 gang member
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has taken a bold stance against El Salvador in response to the country’s cooperation with the Trump administration in the deportation of criminal illegal migrants. Pritzker has ordered a review of all investments and business ties with El Salvador, potentially leading to a boycott of the Central American nation.
In a statement, Governor Pritzker emphasized the importance of upholding the United States Constitution and ensuring due process for all individuals. He expressed concern over the erosion of fundamental Constitutional rights by the Trump administration and vowed to protect the Rule of Law in Illinois. Pritzker’s actions are a direct response to El Salvador’s defiance of court orders and the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a suspected MS-13 gang member with connections to human trafficking, who is currently detained in El Salvador.
Pritzker has instructed various state agencies to identify any fund investments, state contracts, and trade relationships with El Salvador. The Illinois State Board of Investment, State Universities Retirement System, and Teachers’ Retirement System will assess any investments tied to the Salvadoran government or businesses in El Salvador. The Illinois Department of Central Management Services and the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity will also analyze state contracts and trade between Illinois and El Salvador.
Meanwhile, several Democrats, including Senator Chris Van Hollen, have traveled to El Salvador in an effort to secure Abrego Garcia’s return to the United States. The Supreme Court has ordered the Trump administration to facilitate his return, but Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele has refused to comply. Democrats argue that Abrego Garcia was denied due process, while the Trump administration maintains its stance.
Recent documents have surfaced detailing domestic violence allegations against Abrego Garcia, including accusations of labor and human trafficking. Despite these allegations, the Salvadoran government has been reluctant to cooperate in his return to the U.S. Governor Pritzker’s actions signal a strong stance against El Salvador’s handling of the situation and a commitment to upholding Constitutional rights.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the Trump administration, El Salvador, and Governor Pritzker will navigate the complex legal and political challenges surrounding Abrego Garcia’s case. The Governor’s decision to review Illinois’ investments and business ties with El Salvador underscores the importance of upholding the Rule of Law and protecting fundamental rights in the face of adversity.
