POLITICS
US Citizens in El Salvador? What's the Deal?
USATue Apr 15 2025
The US attorney general recently avoided answering a question about the legality of Donald Trump's suggestion to send US citizens to El Salvador. This idea was brought up during a meeting with El Salvador's president, Nayib Bukele. Trump mentioned that criminals who commit serious crimes, like assaulting elderly people, could be sent to El Salvador and imprisoned there.
When asked if this idea was legal, the attorney general did not give a straight answer. Instead, she talked about the need to lock up criminals for as long as possible and build more prisons if necessary. This dodging of the question raised eyebrows among experts.
Trump has shown interest in this idea before, and the White House has said he was just "floating" the concept. However, legal experts are clear that sending US citizens to another country is not allowed under US law. It's seen as both illegal and unconstitutional.
El Salvador has a history of human rights abuses, especially in its prisons. The US is currently paying El Salvador $6 million to house alleged members of the Tren de Aragua gang. This raises concerns about the conditions these individuals might face if sent to El Salvador.
The idea of sending US citizens to another country for imprisonment is troubling. It's important to consider the legal and ethical implications of such a proposal. The attorney general's avoidance of the question only adds to the confusion and concern surrounding this issue.
continue reading...
questions
How does the administration plan to ensure the safety and human rights of US citizens if they are sent to El Salvador?
Will there be a special visa category for 'American Criminal Tourists'?
What steps will be taken to address the concerns raised by legal experts about the constitutionality of this proposal?
source
actions
flag content