Kaine, Van Hollen, Schumer, Padilla to force vote requiring WH report on El Salvador
Top Democrats, including Sens. Tim Kaine, Charles Schumer, Alex Padilla, and Chris Van Hollen, have made a bold move to push the Trump administration to comply with a court order regarding the return of wrongfully deported U.S. residents to El Salvador. The resolution introduced by these senators is considered “privileged,” which means it will require a full Senate vote to pass. Senator Kaine referenced a specific code under a 1961 foreign assistance law that allows for such actions.
If the resolution is passed and the White House fails to comply, U.S. security assistance to El Salvador will be immediately frozen, according to Schumer, Kaine, and Van Hollen. The lawmakers held a press conference outside the Capitol to outline the details of the vote and also hinted at a separate effort to schedule a vote on sanctions against El Salvador over President Nayib Bukele’s collaboration with Trump.
During the press conference, Senator Kaine delivered a message in Spanish to the government of El Salvador, warning them about the consequences of ignoring the rights of American citizens. The resolution is not solely focused on one individual, such as Kilmar Abrego Garcia, but rather on the broader issue of deportations without due process.
Senator Van Hollen emphasized the need for accountability and mentioned plans to pursue sanctions against Bukele and his government for their involvement in violating the constitutional rights of U.S. residents. The privileged resolution is a clear message to both Trump and Bukele that they must adhere to the law.
In a statement obtained by Fox News Digital, Senator Kaine criticized Bukele for his actions in El Salvador, accusing him of rounding up Salvadorans without due process and subjecting them to inhumane conditions. The resolution aims to hold both the U.S. and El Salvador accountable for their actions.
Representative Joaquin Castro, a House supporter of the resolution, expressed the importance of forcing accountability in this matter. Senator Van Hollen, who made efforts to bring Garcia back to Maryland, highlighted Trump’s failure to facilitate his return despite the court order.
Both Trump and Bukele have raised objections to the court order, claiming it does not require them to return Garcia. Fox News Digital reached out to the White House and Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso for comments on the matter.
In conclusion, the resolution put forth by these top Democrats underscores the importance of upholding the rights of U.S. residents and ensuring that justice is served for those wrongfully deported. It sends a strong message to both the U.S. and El Salvador that violations of human rights will not be tolerated.
