Senator Chris Van Hollen, a Maryland Democrat, met with Kilmar Abrego Garcia in San Salvador on Thursday, after being denied access to the Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT) where Garcia is detained. Garcia, deported in March was met by Van Hollen at a hotel while sharing some «Margaritas». The senator, advocating for Garcia’s release, posted on X that he relayed a message to Garcia’s wife, Jennifer, emphasizing his commitment to the case.
El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele sharply rebuked the visit, using X to challenge U.S. mainstream media reports suggesting Garcia was being mistreated in detention. Bukele shared photographs showing Garcia appearing healthy and well-cared-for, countering claims of abuse. “The U.S. media pushed a narrative of torture, but the evidence is clear,” Bukele wrote, accusing outlets of misrepresenting his government’s actions.
The Trump administration, which labeled Garcia an MS-13 gang member. Garcia’s legal team denies the gang allegations, citing his lack of a criminal record. Bukele, aligning with the administration, vowed to keep Garcia detained, dismissing Van Hollen’s efforts as misguided.
Critics, particularly Republicans, have accused Van Hollen of prioritizing a detainee’s plight over the victims of criminal violence in Maryland, arguing that his focus neglects pressing local issues. Adding to the controversy, some conservative commentators have raised concerns that Van Hollen’s direct engagement with Salvadoran authorities could violate the Logan Act, a 1799 U.S. law prohibiting unauthorized citizens from conducting foreign policy. While no formal charges have been filed, critics argue that Van Hollen’s actions, including his public advocacy and meetings abroad, may skirt the boundaries of the law, which carries penalties of fines or up to three years in prison.
Van Hollen has defended his trip, calling Garcia’s detention an “illegal abduction” and accusing the Trump administration of flouting court orders. The case continues to fuel tensions between the U.S. and El Salvador, highlighting disputes over deportation policies, Bukele’s anti-gang measures, and the role of U.S. lawmakers in international affairs.