In a recent meeting with Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, former President Donald Trump floated the idea of deporting U.S. citizens convicted of violent crimes to El Salvador, particularly those involved in subway attacks or assaults on elderly people. Trump suggested that El Salvador could house these individuals in the country’s infamous mega-prisons, including the Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT). He even joked that Bukele would need to build additional prisons to accommodate the influx of detainees.
The proposal has raised serious concerns from legal experts. U.S. law prevents the deportation of citizens, except in rare cases involving treason or terrorism. While Trump acknowledged that any such move would need to pass legal scrutiny, the idea has sparked significant backlash.
This is not the first time the Trump administration has suggested working with El Salvador on criminal matters. Previously, the U.S. has sent suspected migrant criminals to El Salvador under controversial arrangements. The administration has also provided funding, with $6 million allocated for El Salvador to detain individuals sent by the U.S.
Civil rights advocates have condemned the proposal, calling it unconstitutional and a blatant violation of due process. While the White House press secretary confirmed that Trump raised the idea, it remains under legal review. The proposal has ignited widespread controversy and is likely to face significant legal challenges if pursued.
