President Donald Trump stands firm against the activist court pressure to return an MS-13 gang member deported to El Salvador.
During a recent ABC News interview, the president acknowledged he was able to secure Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s return.
However, refused to do so based on criminal concerns as his administration remains committed to keeping dangerous criminals out of America.
When pressed by ABC News correspondent Terry Moran about bringing Abrego Garcia back to the United States despite a Supreme Court order, President Trump made his position clear.
Moran suggested the president could simply call Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, saying, “You could get him back, there’s a phone on this desk.”
President Trump’s response was direct: “I could.” He then added, “And if he were the gentleman that you say he is, I would do that.”
This frank admission reveals the president’s understanding of his executive authority.
It also highlights his unwillingness to use it for someone he believes poses a threat to American communities.
The case centers on Abrego Garcia, who entered the United States illegally in 2012 and was later deported as part of President Trump’s crackdown on foreign criminals.
Despite a 2019 order supposedly preventing his deportation, the administration maintained he was rightfully removed from the country.
President Trump’s stance directly challenges court orders demanding Abrego Garcia’s return.
The Justice Department previously argued they could satisfy the Supreme Court’s demand by simply allowing Abrego Garcia to enter if he presents himself at a port of entry.
Nonetheless, this option is practically impossible because he will remain in Salvadoran custody for the foreseeable future.
The president has remained firm in his claim that Abrego Garcia is affiliated with the notorious MS-13 gang, a claim Garcia denies.
Some experts have questioned the authenticity of tattoos linking him to MS-13, suggesting images may have been altered.
However, the Trump administration has additional concerns about Garcia’s character, including an allegation of physical abuse against his wife, who later appealed for his return.
Salvadoran President Bukele has shown no interest in releasing Abrego Garcia either.
His position creates a unified front between the two leaders against judges attempting to bypass immigration enforcement.
The strong stance reflects President Trump’s campaign promises to prioritize American safety over judicial activism.
The interview coincided with President Trump’s first 100 days in his second term, during which he has implemented his America First policies.
When questioned about other aspects of his administration, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s reported use of Signal for sensitive communications, President Trump expressed support.
He also maintained his characteristic standard of accountability, noting, “I don’t have 100% confidence in anything.”
