Van Hollen Questions Rubio’s Decency in Heated Senate Hearing

Senator Chris Van Hollen confronted Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a Senate hearing, questioning his relationships with El Salvador’s leadership and the deportation of migrant Kilmar Abrego Garcia. The discussion escalated as Van Hollen accused Rubio of not being truthful, ultimately challenging his decency and expressing regret for voting in favor of his nomination. This tense exchange underscored ongoing debates about U.S. foreign policy and deportation practices.

Senator Chris Van Hollen had a notably contentious exchange with Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a Senate Foreign Affairs Committee hearing on Wednesday. This was Rubio’s first appearance since his confirmation, primarily aimed at defending the current administration’s foreign policy and budget priorities. Instead of a welcoming homecoming, he faced probing questions from Senate Democrats regarding the State Department’s restructuring and budget cuts, along with policies concerning the Middle East and El Salvador.

Van Hollen, a Democrat from Maryland, took significant time to challenge Rubio on his relationships with El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele and the mishandling of deported migrant Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly sent back to El Salvador from Maryland. During the hearing, Rubio mentioned the deportation of gang members, attempting to distance himself from the situation. He specifically referenced a past meeting between Van Hollen and Abrego Garcia, implying the senator was too friendly with individuals involved in criminal enterprises.

The senator did not hold back his criticism, retorting that Rubio’s assertions were unfounded, stating, “Mr. Chairman, he can’t make unsubstantiated comments like that.” He urged Rubio to present evidence in a judicial setting under oath, emphasizing that his claims lacked legitimacy. Van Hollen maintained that during their meeting in El Salvador, there was no consumption of alcohol, challenging Rubio’s narrative about the encounter.

Rubio, asserting his authority in foreign affairs, insisted that neither judges nor the judicial system dictate how he conducts international relations. He stated, “No judge can tell me how I have to outreach to a foreign partner or what I need to say to them.” He defended his approach to diplomacy, arguing that it does not require transparency to the judiciary.

In the wake of increasing tensions, Van Hollen remarked, “You’re just blowing smoke now,” as he pushed back against Rubio’s comments. He drew parallels between Rubio’s deportation policies and the historic McCarthy-era witch hunts, declaring that such actions erode the foundational values of democracy.

In a biting conclusion to his questioning, Van Hollen invoked a famous phrase from attorney Joseph Welch during the McCarthy hearings, asking Rubio, “Have you no sense of decency?” He expressed his disappointment in Rubio, stating he regretted supporting his nomination as secretary of state. Chairman Jim Risch had to step in to mediate the escalating discussion, as both senators exchanged pointed remarks amid a heated environment.

The exchange between Senator Van Hollen and Secretary Rubio highlights the significant political tensions surrounding deportation policies and diplomatic relations with El Salvador. Van Hollen’s pointed questions and criticisms reflect broader concerns about the implications of Trump’s legacy on current foreign policy. As the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee grapples with such contentious issues, the debate over decency and accountability in government actions prevails.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com