Democratic Senator Jeff Merkley criticized President Donald Trump's deportation policies, particularly the case of Venezuelan alleged gang member Kilmar Abrego Garcia, asserting that these actions undermine due process and freedom. Merkley expressed that the situation could end unfavorably for Trump, as the nation may respond by defending constitutional rights. The White House, however, defended its stance, labeling Abrego Garcia as a criminal linked to the MS-13 gang and dismissing the Democrats' defense as misguided. Beyond this case, the Trump administration has also targeted non-citizen college students involved in protests, citing national security concerns. An executive order has been signed to pressure sanctuary cities into compliance with federal immigration enforcement by threatening to withhold funds.

Senator Jeff Merkley warned that Trump's deportation efforts, particularly regarding Kilmar Abrego Garcia, are undermining due process and could lead to a national backlash defending constitutional freedoms.

The Trump administration deported Abrego Garcia, labeling him as an MS-13 gang member, while Democrats argue he was wrongly deported, asserting he is not affiliated with any gang.

The White House criticized Democrats for defending Abrego Garcia, calling him a violent illegal alien and arguing that their stance is ill-advised and politically damaging.

Beyond the Abrego Garcia case, the Trump administration has also targeted non-citizen students involved in protests, justifying deportations by citing threats to national security.

Trump signed an executive order to rescind sanctuary city policies, aiming to enforce compliance by withholding federal funds from jurisdictions that do not cooperate with federal immigration authorities.