Interview with Senator Chris Van Hollen on 'Face the Nation,' April 20, 2025

Host: We'd like to welcome Senator Chris Van Hollen from Maryland. Senator, thank you for joining us today. You've just returned from El Salvador, and we want to discuss the situation regarding Abrego Garcia, given the new details the White House is presenting to justify his continued stay abroad. What are your thoughts on this matter?

Senator Van Hollen: It's a pleasure to be here. The situation of Abrego Garcia stands apart from that of the Venezuelan individuals mentioned previously. In Abrego Garcia's instance, it was acknowledged by the previous administration in a court of law that his abduction and subsequent imprisonment in El Salvador were unwarranted.

Host: Indeed.

Sen. Van Hollen: Legally, per the Supreme Court, efforts should have been made to secure his return. Instead, the lawyer advocating for him faced criticism. I urge the administration to present their facts in court rather than engage in public discourse without evidence. A federal court found no links between Abrego Garcia and any terrorist organizations such as MS-13. It's time to substantiate claims in court.

Host: This deportation rationale seems to stem from allegations against Garcia. Have you communicated this to him during your conversation?

Sen. Van Hollen: We didn't delve deeply into all specifics, except that U.S. courts deemed his deportation unlawful. He was unaware of this reasoning prior to being detained and deported. Detained initially at Baltimore, he wasn't afforded the chance to inform others of his situation.

Host: You didn't directly inquire about his alleged MS-13 affiliation, an accusation from the White House. Was there a reason for this?

Sen. Van Hollen: His stance on this accusation is well-documented; he consistently denies any association. My focus was ensuring his well-being, a promise I made to his family.

Host: Recently, you've noted his transfer from the high-security CECOT prison. Do you have insight into the reasons behind this move or its duration?

Sen. Van Hollen: I don't have definitive details on why he was moved from CECOT, where he faced significant distress. His current situation is reportedly less severe, though it remains critical to monitor.

Host: Images circulated by El Salvador's president show you with Garcia in what appears to be a casual setting. Could this be interpreted as an attempt by the Salvadoran government to mislead?

Sen. Van Hollen: Contrary to appearances, there was significant resistance to allowing me to meet him. The setting was indeed orchestrated, but my aim was to confirm his condition personally.

Host: The U.S. administration has firmly stated there's no plan to repatriate Garcia soon. Is there a possibility of change while the current president holds office?

Sen. Van Hollen: The courts have demanded his return, a stance the current administration hasn't adhered to, illustrating a broader disregard for constitutional rights which impacts all citizens. This isn't solely about one individual, but upholding justice and constitutional integrity.

Host: Thank you, Senator Van Hollen, for your insights. We look forward to future discussions.

Sen. Van Hollen: Thank you for having me.

Host: We'll be back shortly with more from 'Face the Nation.'