GOP Condemns Senator’s Efforts to Repatriate Salvadoran National Amid Controversy

GOP Condemns Senator’s Efforts to Repatriate Salvadoran National Amid Controversy

FIRST ON FOX: Maryland Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen faced significant backlash for his recent trip to El Salvador, where he sought to facilitate the return of deported Salvadoran national Kilmar Abrego Garcia.

Garcia is currently incarcerated in El Salvador, and President Nayib Bukele has publicly stated that it would be “preposterous” to attempt his return to the United States. Van Hollen’s trip generated headlines on Wednesday morning when he shared a selfie-video prior to flying to San Salvador, declaring that his mission was to advocate for Garcia’s return to Maryland.

Political Backlash from Maryland’s Republican Delegation

Rep. Andy Harris, the only Republican in Maryland’s congressional delegation, sharply criticized Van Hollen. He drew a stark contrast between the senator’s focus on Garcia and the case of Rachel Morin, a Maryland woman murdered by an illegal immigrant who was recently convicted.

Harris remarked, “The most glaring double standard is that Rachel Morin, a constituent of mine, was brutally murdered by an illegal alien from El Salvador. In contrast, Chris Van Hollen is prioritizing a trip to bring back a citizen of El Salvador who entered the United States illegally and has ties to the MS-13 gang,” he said.

After Morin’s killer was convicted, Van Hollen issued a statement expressing gratitude to law enforcement and calling for comprehensive immigration reform. He emphasized the need to balance support for immigrant communities with enforcement of immigration laws.

Administration Officials Join the Chorus of Criticism

White House Communications Director Steven Cheung mocked Van Hollen, criticizing both the senator and his supporters for showing more empathy towards an alleged MS-13 gang member than towards victims of violent crimes involving illegal immigration.

In a statement, Cheung said, “The concerns for illegal immigrants appear to outweigh compassion for families harmed by crime. This sends a troubling message to the citizens of Maryland and across the country.”

Van Hollen’s voting record on immigration has emerged as somewhat contradictory. While he opposed the Laken Riley Act aimed at addressing the illegal immigration crisis, he also objected to the deportation of two Salvadoran men who excelled in soccer.

Local Republican Leaders Challenge Repatriation Efforts

Harris labeled efforts to repatriate Garcia to Maryland as misguided, stating, “He has already been repatriated to El Salvador, where he holds citizenship. This is where he is supposed to be.”

Furthermore, he added, “Rachel Morin was a Maryland resident; this individual does not have that claim. We should focus on our own citizens before assisting foreign nationals.”

Harris expressed concerns about taxpayer dollars being spent on a trip meant to return someone who illegally entered the United States.

Escalating Criticism from Conservative Circles

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene took the criticism even further, alleging that Van Hollen was “flirting with treason” by attempting to secure Garcia’s return. She emphasized that Garcia is already “home in El Salvador,” implying that efforts to disrupt his status are unjustifiable.

The Department of Homeland Security also echoed Harris’s sentiments, asserting that Van Hollen has devoted more energy to facilitating the return of an alleged gang member than to supporting victims of gang-related violence.

Defending a Complex Approach to Immigration

Despite the heated responses, Van Hollen found some backing from Maryland Governor Wes Moore, who stated, “We can advocate for public safety while adhering to constitutional principles.”

Moore defended Van Hollen’s efforts to attend to the health and safety of his constituents, including Garcia’s family—his wife and their five-year-old child, both U.S. citizens.

The governor raised concerns about the Trump administration’s refusal to comply with a unanimous Supreme Court ruling regarding Garcia’s return, hinting at potential threats to deport U.S. citizens to El Salvador.

The Ongoing Immigration Debate in Maryland

The situation surrounding Garcia highlights the broader national discourse on immigration policy and representation. As the immigration debate continues to divide lawmakers, Maryland’s leaders must navigate the complex landscape of public opinion and legal frameworks.

As the repercussions of Van Hollen’s actions unfold, it remains to be seen how this will influence the senator’s political capital in future elections and the ongoing dialogue about immigration reform in America.

Fox News Digital reached out for additional comments from Van Hollen’s office but has yet to receive a response.