Laura Ingraham engaged in a heated exchange with Rep. Yassamin Ansari, D-Ariz., regarding the purpose of a recent congressional delegation trip to El Salvador. The discussion focused on the visit's aim to advocate for the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a migrant previously deported from the United States.
Ansari stated the delegation traveled to press for Abrego Garcia's return following a Supreme Court order. She claimed the trip was about upholding the rule of law and ensuring due process, asserting "nothing more American than due process and the rule of law."
Ingraham questioned the necessity of the trip, noting Senator Van Hollen had recently visited the country on a similar matter. She pressed Ansari on what specific due process was denied to an individual courts found had a reasonable belief of affiliation with MS-13.Ansari argued the concern was broader than one person, insisting it was about the principle of Due Process being challenged by the Trump Administration. She cited the unanimous Supreme Court ruling and even mentioned Joe Rogan as evidence of bipartisan concern for due process.
The conversation grew contentious, marked by moments of cross-talk the host described as "annoying for the viewers." Ingraham repeatedly challenged Ansari's explanation for traveling to El Salvador.
Ingraham accused Ansari of using the case for political gain. "I don’t think he matters to you," Ingraham stated. "I think the political story matters to you."
Rep. Ansari traveled with Representatives Robert Garcia of California, Maxwell Frost of Florida, and Maxine Dexter of Oregon. Their request to visit Abrego Garcia in El Salvador was denied.
Recent judicial statements regarding the case have also highlighted challenges with the Trump Administration. U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis recently criticized the administration for obstructing discovery in the matter.Despite the court orders, the Trump Administration maintains that if Abrego Garcia is returned to the U.S., he will face immediate re-deportation.
The exchange on the Laura Ingraham program concluded with Ingraham asserting the congresswoman's focus was on advocating for an illegal immigrant's right to remain in the United States indefinitely, calling it "the truth."
