A veteran Democratic strategist is warning the party against aligning too closely with Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran deported last month whom the Trump administration labels an MS-13 member and violent abuser.
On CNN, strategist Mo Elleithee urged Democrats not to make Abrego Garcia a “martyr,” instead urging focus on alleged threats to civil liberties under Trump.
While Sen. Chris Van Hollen vowed to advocate for Abrego Garcia after meeting him in El Salvador, Elleithee questioned whether that message resonates nationwide. He said Democrats should emphasize the broader impact on constitutional rights, not just the individual case.
The Trump administration maintains Abrego Garcia’s gang ties were affirmed by immigration judges and Salvadoran officials.
Meanwhile, Trump aide Stephen Miller blasted Van Hollen, accusing him of ignoring victims of crimes allegedly committed by undocumented immigrants.
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