Former ICE Director Tom Homan found himself in a tense back-and-forth with CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins over the recent deportation of Kilmer Abrego Garcia—a confirmed MS-13 gang member—back to El Salvador, where he was quickly taken into custody.
During the segment, Collins cited a U.S. Supreme Court ruling instructing the Trump administration to “facilitate” Garcia’s return and referenced a 2019 decision that had temporarily blocked his deportation. She argued this showed mishandling by the administration, suggesting that they failed to follow proper legal process.
But Homan didn’t agree. He pushed back, pointing out that Abrego Garcia had been found in the U.S. illegally by two immigration courts, and since then, evidence and rulings have confirmed his ties to the notorious MS-13 gang—a group designated as a terrorist organization by former President Trump.
“He’s not a U.S. resident. He’s in El Salvador now, in custody,” Homan stated firmly. “Their government has made it clear he won’t be released. The Department of Justice is handling the legal process.”
When Collins pressed further about the 2019 court decision, Homan reminded her that things have changed dramatically since then. “That ruling was based on outdated information. His ties to MS-13 have since been confirmed by multiple sources—ICE data, law enforcement, and even the Salvadoran government.”
He also highlighted that the rival gang mentioned in the old court ruling no longer exists, removing the earlier concern about Garcia’s safety if deported.
Despite Collins’ continued questioning, Homan stood his ground. “Two federal judges and a police department have identified him as MS-13. We have enough evidence, and his removal is justified.”
Interestingly, the original 2019 decision referred to Garcia as a “resident,” even though he was never a legal resident in the U.S., a point that has sparked further debate.
While some judges have expressed concern over constitutional due process in cases involving deportation, Homan emphasized that the U.S. has a duty to protect its citizens from known gang members and violent criminals.