On Friday, U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis told lawyers from the Trump administration to secure the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia from a mega-prison in El Salvador because he was falsely imprisoned for being in a Venezuelan gang, as admitted in previous court filings. Garcia had immigration protected status, is married to an American citizen, and has a special needs child who is also an American citizen. He had no criminal record and was employed.
In response, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in an email, “We suggest the Judge contact President Bukele because we are unaware of the judge having jurisdiction or authority over the country of El Salvador.” In other words, nope!
Watch this podcast with Tim Miller and Sam Stein of the Bulwark for more details and reaction.