Maryland Democrat Denied Access to Alleged MS-13 Member in El Salvador

Democratic Representative Glenn Ivey traveled to El Salvador on Memorial Day in an attempt to meet Kilmar Abrego Garcia, whom he referred to as his "constituent." However, El Salvadoran authorities denied him access, requiring a permit from San Salvador, leading Ivey to express frustration publicly. Critics noted that Abrego Garcia is not a constituent of Ivey, as he is a foreign national and alleged illegal immigrant, questioning why Ivey would advocate on his behalf. Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen successfully met with Abrego Garcia in El Salvador, while other Democrats were not granted access. The incident sparked debate over the appropriateness of U.S. lawmakers intervening in foreign nationals' affairs and their priorities regarding representation. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries was rumored to have discouraged such visits, although his office denied this report.