CONSTITUTIONAL CRISIS

Despite a Supreme Court order, the U.S. and El Salvador refuse to facilitate the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, exposing a constitutional crisis and challenging the balance of powers.

Hey Small Biters,

​This week, a troubling standoff has emerged between the U.S. Supreme Court and the executive branch, drawing international attention and raising profound questions about the rule of law.​

The heart of the matter is Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident who was deported to El Salvador in March under contentious circumstances. Despite a 2019 immigration judge's ruling granting him protection from deportation due to credible fears of persecution, Abrego Garcia was apprehended and expelled without due process. The administration later conceded that his deportation was an "administrative error." ​

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In response, the Supreme Court unanimously ordered the administration to "facilitate" Abrego Garcia's return to the United States. However, during a recent Oval Office meeting with El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi deflected responsibility, stating that the decision rested with El Salvador. Bukele, in turn, dismissed the notion of returning Abrego Garcia, rhetorically asking if he was expected to "smuggle a terrorist into the United States." ​