Trump Considers Deporting U.S. Citizens to El Salvador: Legal, Ethical & Human Rights Questions Raised
Washington D.C. — Former U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly evaluating the legal feasibility of deporting American citizens convicted of serious crimes to El Salvador, a country notorious for harsh prison conditions and alleged human rights abuses. The proposal was confirmed on Tuesday by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who emphasized that the idea is still under review and may face major legal hurdles.
Who Would Be Targeted Under Trump’s Deportation Proposal?
According to Leavitt, the deportation plan would initially target violent, repeat offenders. However, Trump has also suggested deporting individuals convicted of lesser crimes, further complicating the legal narrative.
“These would be heinous, violent criminals who have broken our nation’s laws repeatedly,” Leavitt said during a White House press briefing. “The president has floated the idea very publicly and transparently.”
The legality of deporting U.S. citizens remains uncertain, as no current legal framework exists to strip Americans of their citizenship or forcibly remove them from the country.
Trump’s Admiration for El Salvador’s Prison System
Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump referred to El Salvador’s prison system as a cost-effective solution for housing criminals. He praised Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele for his partnership and described the deportation initiative as an “honor.”
“I look forward to watching the sick terrorist thugs get 20-year jail sentences,” Trump said. “Perhaps they could serve them in the prisons of El Salvador, which have become so recently famous for such lovely conditions!”
The controversial prisons have faced global criticism for inhumane conditions, overcrowding, and systematic abuse. Nevertheless, Trump believes using them could cut U.S. taxpayer costs.
Past Deportations to El Salvador Raise Alarms
Flights carrying immigrants deported under Trump’s policy have already landed in El Salvador. Many of the deportees — primarily Venezuelan men — were labeled as gang members, such as affiliates of Tren de Aragua, without being given an opportunity to contest the charges.
These actions were taken under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, a rarely used legal provision. Critics argue that applying the same law to U.S. citizens would constitute a gross abuse of executive power.
Legal Experts Slam Plan as Unconstitutional
Legal scholars and civil rights advocates are calling Trump’s idea a direct violation of the U.S. Constitution, particularly the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments, which guarantee due process and protection from arbitrary government action.
“The U.S. government has no legal authority to deport its own citizens. This proposal would be struck down immediately in any federal court,” said a constitutional law expert.