The Biden administration has asserted that Kilmar Ábrego García, a Salvadoran national mistakenly deported from Maryland, will never return to the U.S., despite legal challenges and claims of his innocence from his family and lawyer.
White House Refuses Return of Wrongly Deported Man Amid Controversy

White House Refuses Return of Wrongly Deported Man Amid Controversy
White House maintains status of Kilmar Ábrego García, who was mistakenly deported to El Salvador, citing gang affiliations and domestic violence allegations.
The White House is standing firm in its decision regarding Kilmar Ábrego García, who was mistakenly deported from Maryland to El Salvador last month. The case has garnered significant attention, particularly due to allegations made against him that have fueled the administration's refusal to facilitate his return.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated claims that Ábrego García is affiliated with the notorious MS-13 gang, a charge his lawyer vehemently denies. Additionally, she brought up prior domestic violence allegations stemming from a restraining order filed by Ábrego García's wife, Jennifer Vasquez Sura, who later clarified that the order was issued "out of caution," and the couple had since resolved their issues.
Maryland Judge Paula Xinis condemned the administration's actions, emphasizing that Ábrego García’s deportation violated legal protections established in a 2019 court order. The Supreme Court recently partially supported this ruling, asserting the necessity for the Trump administration to facilitate Ábrego García's return.
Despite the legal pushback, Leavitt asserted in a press briefing that if he were ever to return, he would be immediately deported again, stating, “He will never live in the United States of America.” The controversy intensified following a visit from El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele, who stated he lacked the authority to return Ábrego García, further complicating diplomatic relations.
The case has also drawn in political figures. Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen traveled to El Salvador to advocate for Ábrego García but was denied access to speak with him. Despite the push from several lawmakers, the White House has firmly rebutted claims that do not align with their narrative, indicating deeper complexities surrounding U.S. immigration policy and the ongoing political climate.
As of now, the status of Ábrego García remains uncertain and mired in legal battles, echoing broader issues of immigration policy and its repercussions on individuals navigating the complex legal landscape.