Former US President Donald Trump has said he would be happy to send violent American prisoners to El Salvador’s massive prison facility—if it is legal. Speaking to reporters while aboard Air Force One on Sunday, Trump shared his thoughts on the possibility of transferring some of America’s worst criminals to a prison in El Salvador.
Trump said he would discuss the idea with El Salvador’s President, Nayib Bukele, but would only move forward if the law allows it.
Trump Wants to Lower Prison Costs
Trump explained that he wants to send certain repeat offenders—those who have committed violent acts like pushing people onto train tracks or attacking strangers—to El Salvador’s mega-prison. He believes this could be cheaper and more effective than keeping them in US prisons.
“If they can house these horrible criminals for a lot less money than it costs us, I’m all for it,” Trump said. “But I would only do it according to the law.”
He added, “I think if we could get El Salvador or somebody to take them, I’d be very happy with it. But I have to see what the law says.”
Criticism Over Past Deportation Agreements
Trump’s comment comes at a time when he is already facing criticism for working with President Bukele to deport alleged gang members to El Salvador. These deportations have sparked lawsuits and legal challenges, especially over the Trump administration’s use of the Alien Enemies Act, a law from the 18th century.
Last week, another group of men—claimed to be members of the MS-13 and Tren de Aragua gangs—was deported from the United States and sent to El Salvador’s high-security mega-prison. A White House official clarified that this latest deportation did not use the Alien Enemies Act, but instead followed normal immigration procedures.
What Is El Salvador’s Mega-Prison?
El Salvador’s mega-prison, officially known as the Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT), is one of the largest prison facilities in the world. It was built by President Bukele to hold tens of thousands of suspected gang members. The prison is known for its tough conditions and strict security.
Bukele’s approach to crime has been widely discussed, with some praising the drop in gang violence and others warning about possible human rights issues. The idea of sending American prisoners there would likely raise similar debates.
Legal and Human Rights Questions Remain
While Trump’s proposal could appeal to some who support strong measures against crime, legal experts say the US would face major challenges in sending American citizens to be jailed in another country. Human rights organizations are also likely to oppose the idea, especially given El Salvador’s prison conditions.
At the moment, no such transfer has happened, and Trump himself admitted, “I don’t know what the law says on that.” He said he needs to study the legal side before making any official move.
