Sen. Van Hollen under fire for immigration ‘double standard’

Maryland Democratic Sen. Chris Van Hollen faced criticism for his recent trip to El Salvador in an attempt to bring back deported Salvadoran Kilmar Abrego Garcia. Garcia, who is currently imprisoned in El Salvador, has been deemed ineligible for deportation back to the U.S. by President Nayib Bukele.

Van Hollen made headlines with a selfie-video posted before his flight to San Salvador, stating that his mission was to ensure that both governments understand his determination to fight for Garcia’s return to Maryland. However, his actions were met with disapproval from Republican Rep. Andy Harris, who pointed out the tragic case of Rachel Morin, a Maryland woman who was murdered by an illegal immigrant from El Salvador.

Harris criticized Van Hollen for prioritizing Garcia’s return over seeking justice for Morin. He highlighted the fact that Garcia had been deported back to El Salvador, his home country, and questioned the senator’s focus on a non-citizen over American citizens like Morin. Despite Van Hollen’s previous statements on immigration reform, his actions in this case have raised concerns among his colleagues.

The White House communications director, Steven Cheung, mocked Van Hollen and his supporters for showing more sympathy towards an illegal MS-13 gang member than victims of migrant crimes. The Department of Homeland Security also criticized Van Hollen for his efforts to bring back Garcia, labeling him as a gang member and illegal alien.

While Van Hollen did receive support from some Maryland officials, including Governor Wes Moore, who praised his efforts to bring peace to Garcia’s family in Maryland, the overall response to his actions has been mixed. Critics have accused him of misplaced priorities and questioned the use of taxpayer funds for his trip to El Salvador.

In conclusion, Van Hollen’s actions have sparked a debate on immigration policy and the government’s responsibility towards both citizens and non-citizens. The controversy surrounding his trip to El Salvador highlights the complexities of the immigration issue and the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes public safety and the rule of law.