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President Donald Trump said in an interview on Tuesday that he has the power to bring Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia back to the U.S., but he chooses not to. The Maryland man was wrongly deported to El Salvador last month despite a court order blocking his removal. Trump’s comments mark a shift from his administration’s previous claims that the U.S. lacks the authority to return Abrego Garcia while he remains in Salvadoran custody.
What to Know:
- Trump told ABC News, “I could” bring Abrego Garcia back, but refuses.
- “I’m not the one making this decision,” Trump said, and told ABC News’ Terry Moran that government lawyers do not want him to help bring Abrego Garcia back.
- The U.S. deported Abrego Garcia in March due to an “administrative error.”
- A 2019 judge’s ruling had barred his return to El Salvador over safety fears.
- Officials claim he’s in MS-13, a label Abrego Garcia and a judge both dispute.
- Salvadoran President Bukele says he won’t release someone seen as a terrorist.
- A federal judge says the Trump administration is not complying in “good faith.”
Stay with Newsweek for the latest.
Kamala Harris to criticize Trump in high-profile return to spotlight
Former Vice President Kamala Harris will deliver a speech Wednesday at Emerge America’s 20th anniversary gala, using the platform to criticize Trump sharply. The remarks are expected to be her most pointed since leaving office in January, touching on Trump’s economic policies, treatment of democratic institutions, and foreign affairs.
The appearance comes as Harris reemerges on the political scene, fueling speculation about her next move. While she hasn’t ruled out another presidential bid, she’s also seen as a top contender for California governor when Gavin Newsom’s term ends.
Harris is continuing to fundraise through the Harris Victory Fund and remains a prominent voice in Democratic messaging. In recent outreach, she has called on Democrats to unify against Trump and his allies, warning of the stakes ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Wednesday’s speech also marks a return to her political roots — Emerge America grew out of her early run for San Francisco district attorney.
Gretchen Whitmer speaking at Trump rally sparks fury: ‘Enabling behavior’
President Donald Trump listens as Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer speaks to members of the Michigan National Guard at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in Harrison Township, Mich.
Alex Brandon/AP
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is facing intense backlash after making a surprise appearance at a Donald Trump rally.
Newsweek has contacted Whitmer’s office for comment via email.
Whitmer, who is viewed as a likely presidential contender in 2028, has come under scrutiny from Democrats in recent weeks for cultivating a closer working relationship with Trump. Her party is divided over whether to engage with the White House or not as they seek to win back the House and the Senate in 2026, and the presidency in 2028.
Her appearance will likely further isolate Democrats who regard Trump as a toxic figure and are frustrated with what they see as their party’s inability to stand up to him, but Whitmer has repeatedly defended her bipartisan approach, saying that she’s willing to work with anyone committed to getting results but won’t compromise her core beliefs.
