Democrats Face Backlash for Supporting Deported MS-13 Member

Democratic lawmakers, including Senator Chris Van Hollen and Governor Wes Moore, are facing criticism from conservatives for advocating the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a twice-deported illegal immigrant and alleged MS-13 gang member, to the United States after his recent deportation to El Salvador. Sheriff Jeff Gahler of Harford County, Maryland, strongly asserts that Garcia is a confirmed MS-13 member and a documented domestic abuser, citing police reports and Department of Homeland Security documentation as evidence. Republican commentators and media figures, such as Senator Ted Cruz and comedian Rob Schneider, have highlighted and mocked what they describe as the Democrats' misplaced defense of illegal immigrant criminals, framing it as part of a broader trend of the party supporting controversial figures. The issue has ignited partisan debate, with conservatives expressing concern over public safety and the implications of supporting individuals with violent criminal backgrounds. Democrats involved, however, have not publicly addressed these specific allegations in detail, focusing on due process concerns. The controversy continues to fuel broader discussions about immigration policy and political priorities in the U.S.