Trump on Kilmar Abrego Garcia: DOJ made good decision

Trump on Kilmar Abrego Garcia: DOJ made good decision

In a recent series of pardons and commutations, former President Donald Trump has continued to exercise his presidential power, sparking controversy and debate. One notable case involves Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who remains in an El Salvador prison despite a Supreme Court order directing Trump to facilitate his return to the United States. According to Trump, Abrego Garcia is too dangerous to be afforded basic due process or to re-enter the United States due to his supposed gang membership. However, Trump has commuted the life sentence imposed on Larry Hoover, the founder of the Gangster Disciples, who was involved in drug trafficking, money laundering, and murder across numerous cities and states.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has been criticized for its handling of the pardon process, with concerns raised about political influence and favoritism. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) sent a letter to Trump's new pardon attorney, Ed Martin, demanding an explanation of the criteria and process used for vetting pardon applications. Raskin accused the DOJ of using the Office of the Pardon Attorney to dole out pardons as favors to the president's loyal political followers and generous donors, ignoring the thousands of individual applications for clemency in the normal process.

The pardon power, designed as a tool of mercy, has been criticized for its potential for abuse. George Mason, a delegate at the 1787 constitutional convention, voiced concerns that the pardon power could be used to "destroy the republic." Chief Justice John Roberts, in a ruling last year, highlighted the pardon power as "conclusive" to the president and "preclusive" of any oversight, sparking debate about the accountability of presidential pardons.

In the case of Abrego Garcia, Trump's decision to not facilitate his return to the United States has been met with criticism. While Trump has commuted the sentence of a convicted gang leader and murderer, he has refused to do the same for Abrego Garcia, who is seen as a threat to national security. This decision has raised questions about the consistency and fairness of the pardon process under the Trump administration.

References:
[1] https://www.yahoo.com/news/trump-pardon-spree-075250372.html