House Democrats Visit El Salvador Amid Controversy Over Deported MS-13 Member

A group of House Democrats and Senator Chris Van Hollen have drawn criticism for traveling to El Salvador to support Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a deported migrant alleged to have ties to the MS-13 gang and accused of domestic abuse. The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) mocked the Democrats by offering to pay for their trips if they livestreamed visits, highlighting claims that Democrats are prioritizing 'violent gang members' over American citizens. The trips, some reportedly taxpayer-funded, were denounced by Republicans, including House Oversight Chairman James Comer, who refused to authorize official funding and characterized the visits as political grandstanding. Democratic lawmakers claim the deportation lacked due process and argue their efforts are about upholding rule of law, while critics see the focus on Abrego Garcia as politically damaging given his criminal allegations. Constituents and conservative commentators have also lambasted the lawmakers, accusing them of neglecting domestic issues in favor of controversial international advocacy. The controversy underscores the deep partisan divide over immigration enforcement and the handling of high-profile deportation cases.