Sen. Van Hollen says trip to El Salvador was about defending the right of due process, not ‘defending the man’

U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) talked to the press while visiting El Salvador to support the release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia in San Salvador on April 16, 2025. Van Hollen stated that his purpose in meeting Abrego Garcia was to advocate for his right to due process, not to defend him personally. He emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law, warning that denying one person’s constitutional rights could jeopardize the rights of all Americans. Van Hollen also criticized the Trump administration for disregarding court decisions, leading to a potential constitutional crisis. During his media appearances, Van Hollen shared Abrego Garcia’s account of the trauma he endured during his detention. President Nayib Bukele of El Salvador had previously stated that Abrego Garcia would not be returned to the U.S., despite a Supreme Court ruling urging his return.