Former chair of the Republican National Committee (RNC), Michael Steele, expressed disapproval on Friday regarding the Trump administration’s commitment to block Kilmer Abrego Garcia, a man who was improperly deported and has since returned to the U.S. after being accidentally sent back to El Salvador.
In essays published by MSNBC, Steele referred to President Trump’s approach to the situation as “an effort to legitimize extrajudicial deportation of undocumented immigrants like Abrego Garcia and possibly American citizens.”
Much of Steele’s criticism surfaced earlier this month alongside Vance Vance, who challenged the notion that Abrego Garcia was denied a fair process. Vance reiterated the Trump administration’s assertion that Abrego Garcia, linked to MS-13 gang activities, had unlawfully reentered the U.S. and “must face consequences.”
Steele did not hold back, accusing him of attempting to undermine the nation’s foundational principle of a fair process “by aligning with authoritarian wolves.”
“Do not let his misguided self-righteousness deceive you. There is no question he will be held accountable. Garcia’s legitimate process is unquestionable,” Steele remarked, adding further points later.
His objection comes as Abrego Garcia remains in one of El Salvador’s most notorious prisons following his deportation late last month. The White House, which previously acknowledged the deportation was an error, seems unwilling to facilitate his return.
This week, Salvadoran President Naive Bukele mentioned during a meeting with Trump at the White House that he was unable to meet existing demands. He also dismissed Senator Chris Van Hollen’s (D-MD) visit to El Salvador to check on Abrego Garcia, as the senator, like many Democrats, traveled there to conduct a “welfare check,” raising alarms about the treatment of deported individuals.
The Trump administration’s allegations of Abrego Garcia’s gang affiliation are largely based on undisclosed information disputed by his family. Steele defended him, emphasizing that he had not committed any crimes in the U.S. and resided in Maryland under protection.
“We need to cut through the constitutional fabrications and misrepresentations of this administration and confront the challenges our country is facing. The administration supports the deportation of legal U.S. residents while disregarding court orders to reinstate him,” the MSNBC host stated.
He added that this situation should spur action among Americans.
“What society willingly accepts dictates normalcy,” Steele stated. “Are Americans prepared to insist on accountability from this administration and press elected officials to respond to these demands?”
“The belief that this could be a one-time error is an illusion,” the former RNC chair continued. “And that should serve as reassurance for Americans.”
