Top Trump official torches Dem senator’s ‘advocacy for a known terrorist’ during fiery hearing
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Democratic senators, including Sens. Chris Van Hollen and Chris Murphy, engaged in a heated debate over the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to El Salvador during a Senate Appropriations Homeland Security Subcommittee hearing.
Van Hollen pressed Secretary Noem on whether the Department of Homeland Security was taking any action to facilitate Abrego Garcia’s return in light of a 9-0 Supreme Court decision. Noem responded that the administration was complying with all federal court orders, but did not confirm if they were actively working to facilitate his return.
When Murphy questioned if Noem had reached out to El Salvador to facilitate Abrego Garcia’s release in accordance with the Supreme Court decision, she reiterated that the administration was following all court orders and judges’ orders.
Noem firmly stated that Abrego Garcia, a suspected MS-13 gang member, would not be allowed back into the United States under any circumstances. She described him as a terrorist, human smuggler, and wife-beater, emphasizing that he should never have been in the country in the first place.
Despite claims from Democrats, including Van Hollen, that Abrego Garcia was wrongly deported and not afforded due process, the administration cited evidence of his involvement with MS-13 and suspicious behavior related to human trafficking.
The debate highlighted the stark differences in opinions between Republicans and Democrats on immigration enforcement and due process. Republicans praised the department’s efforts on illegal immigration, while Democrats raised concerns about spending and legal processes.
The hearing showcased the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policy and enforcement, with both sides presenting their arguments passionately. The fate of Kilmar Abrego Garcia remains uncertain as the debate continues to unfold.
