Senior Trump administration officials are pushing back against calls to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the United States, citing serious allegations of domestic violence and possible ties to gang activity.
Attorney General Pam Bondi and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt have publicly defended the deportation, pointing to reports that Abrego Garcia had allegedly assaulted his wife in 2021. Bondi emphasized the administration’s stance, saying Abrego Garcia belongs in custody abroad, not back on U.S. soil.
The case has drawn fierce criticism from Democratic lawmakers, including Senator Chris Van Hollen, who argue that Abrego Garcia’s removal violated court orders. Legal documents show that federal courts, including the Supreme Court, ruled that the government should facilitate his return, sparking a constitutional clash over enforcement and judicial authority.
While the administration maintains that the deportation was lawful and necessary, critics say it represents a breach of due process and an overreach by immigration authorities. The situation continues to fuel debate over how alleged criminal behavior should be weighed against legal protections granted by U.S. courts.