The Democratic representatives, including Robert Garcia, Maxwell Frost, Yassamin Ansari, and Maxine Dexter, faced a setback in El Salvador while advocating for the release of the illegal immigrant Kilmar Abrego Garcia. Their visit was not considered an “official capacity” visit, leading to a refusal from the authorities in the country. Their actions mirrored those of Senator Chris Van Hollen from Maryland, who initially faced obstacles during his visit to the CECOT mega-prison to meet with Abrego Garcia.
After some difficulties, Van Hollen was eventually allowed to speak with Abrego Garcia in a restaurant. However, the optics of the encounter were not in his favor. The sight of them having margaritas on the table raised questions, with Van Hollen later claiming that the beverages were placed there by El Salvador’s President, Nayib Bukele, to portray him in a negative light.
The attempt by these Democrats to intervene in the Kilmar Abrego Garcia case in El Salvador has been met with criticism and controversies, with their actions drawing attention for the wrong reasons. Despite their efforts, the situation surrounding the illegal immigrant and suspected MS-13 gang member remains complex and unresolved.
