On Memorial Day, while Americans across the country honored fallen servicemembers, Rep. Glenn Ivey (D-MD) was in El Salvador attempting to visit Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a detained foreign national who is not a U.S. citizen and does not reside in Maryland.

Rep. Ivey posted on X marking Memorial Day with a tribute, but quickly followed it with updates from El Salvador, where he was seeking to meet with Abrego Garcia.

In a video, Ivey described himself as the “Congressman who represents Kilmar,” claiming he had contacted U.S. and Salvadoran embassy officials to request a visit with the detainee.

“They wouldn’t let us see him,” Ivey said, explaining that he had been told to return to San Salvador to obtain a permit. “That’s ridiculous,” he said.

Here's What They're Not Telling You About Your Retirement

MORE NEWS: Josh Hokit Fires Back at Critics After Viral White House UFC Moment [WATCH]

“They knew we were coming, they knew why we were coming, and they know we have the right to do this. So, they need to just cut the crap, let us get in there and have a chance to see him and talk with him... Let us in!”

Ivey was joined by Abrego Garcia’s attorney and a representative of a Maryland-based labor union to which Abrego Garcia reportedly belonged.

Despite Ivey’s claim, Abrego Garcia is not a constituent of the Maryland congressman.

He is not a U.S. citizen or voter, nor does he reside in Ivey’s district. According to reports, Abrego Garcia is a Salvadoran national, and his legal status in the United States had previously been under scrutiny, including allegations of affiliation with the MS-13 gang.

FREE Gun Law Map: Laws Don't Pause During Social Unrest

Following recent reports that Congress is considering a nationwide voter ID requirement for federal elections, do you support requiring voters to show identification before casting a ballot?

By completing the poll, you agree to receive emails from RVM News, occasional offers from our partners and that you've read and agree to our privacy policy and legal statement.

The U.S. State Department has not publicly commented on the visit or its outcome.

There is also no indication that Salvadoran authorities are required to grant visiting rights to foreign lawmakers in cases involving their own citizens.

Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) previously traveled to El Salvador and was able to meet with Abrego Garcia, prompting criticism after a photo emerged showing the two sitting together at a table with drinks.

Three other Democratic lawmakers also attempted to meet with the detainee during a recent trip but were denied access.

Close

MORE NEWS: Second Tragedy Strikes Brazil as Hiker Falls 100 Feet in Horrific Accident [WATCH]

A report surfaced that House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries had privately advised members of his caucus not to travel to El Salvador in connection with this case, although his office later denied the claim.

The effort by multiple Democratic lawmakers to engage directly with the Salvadoran government over the case has raised questions about congressional priorities and messaging, particularly as public opinion polling continues to show strong support for President Donald Trump’s approach to immigration enforcement.

Abrego Garcia’s background and immigration status remain points of concern.

Image Credit: Homeland Security
DHS Releases Bombshell Investigative Report on Kilmar Abrego Garcia Suspected Human Trafficking Incident

Critics have questioned why members of Congress are advocating for a non-citizen abroad instead of focusing on representing their actual constituents in the United States.

Rep. Ivey’s Memorial Day trip has become the latest example of lawmakers choosing to involve themselves in foreign legal matters while ongoing immigration issues continue to dominate debate at the federal level.

As Democratic lawmakers push for more visibility in cases involving detained foreign nationals, they risk further highlighting a divide with American voters who increasingly favor tougher border security and immigration controls.

Warning: Account balances and purchasing power no longer tell the same story. Know in 2 minutes if your retirement is working for you.

The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of RVM News. Contact us for guidelines on submitting your own commentary.