Democrats condemn ICE detention as DHS defends Uganda deportation move

The Department of Homeland Security is pushing back against Democrats who are criticizing the recent decision by ICE to detain Kilmar Abrego Garcia and deport him to Uganda.

Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran national, was taken into custody by ICE during a routine check-in at the agency’s office in Baltimore, Maryland. He is now facing deportation to Uganda, a move that has sparked controversy and condemnation from Democratic lawmakers.

According to a senior DHS official, Abrego Garcia is not a Maryland resident but a criminal illegal alien who poses a threat to public safety. The official stated, “It is insane that sanctuary politicians chose to glorify and stand with an MS-13 gang member over the safety of American citizens.”

Earlier this year, Abrego Garcia was deported to El Salvador for suspected gang involvement. However, he later faced charges in the U.S. for alleged human smuggling after a traffic stop in Tennessee. Despite these legal issues, Abrego Garcia managed to return to Maryland, where he was ordered by a U.S. Magistrate Judge to have access to his attorneys.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem criticized the judge’s decision to grant Abrego Garcia brief freedom, calling it the result of a “publicity hungry Maryland judge.” Noem emphasized that President Trump and the DHS are committed to preventing individuals like Abrego Garcia, who is an MS-13 gang member, human trafficker, domestic abuser, and child predator, from terrorizing American citizens.

Democratic lawmakers, including Sen. Chris Van Hollen, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, and Rep. Jasmine Crockett, have expressed concerns about Abrego Garcia’s deportation to Uganda. They have called for a fair legal process and criticized ICE for its handling of the case.

The situation surrounding Abrego Garcia’s detention and potential deportation is expected to be closely monitored by U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis. The judge has previously questioned Trump administration officials about the details of Abrego Garcia’s removal and legal status.

Overall, the controversy surrounding Abrego Garcia’s case highlights the ongoing debate over immigration policy and enforcement in the United States.

Cameron Arcand is a politics writer at Fox News Digital in Washington D.C. Story tips can be sent to Cameron.Arcand@Fox.com and on Twitter: @cameron_arcand.