- President Trump proposed transferring U.S. criminals to foreign prisons, urging El Salvador’s President Bukele to expand prison infrastructure.
- Legal experts criticized the plan as unconstitutional, while Bukele appeared open to cooperating despite logistical and ethical concerns.
- The proposal has sparked debate, with Trump insisting his focus is on targeting “really bad people.”
President Donald Trump on Monday reiterated his controversial idea of transferring U.S. criminals to foreign prisons. Speaking with El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele during a meeting at the White House, Trump proposed sending “homegrown criminals” to El Salvador, urging Bukele to expand his prison infrastructure. The idea, which has sparked intense debate among legal experts, was captured in a video posted by Bukele’s office on X.
Trump Pushes Bold Proposal
During their discussion in the Oval Office, Trump emphasized the need for El Salvador to construct additional prisons to house violent U.S. offenders. “Homegrown criminals are next,” Trump stated, suggesting Bukele might need “five more places” to accommodate them. Bukele appeared receptive, responding with “alright,” as laughter filled the room. However, Trump’s suggestion quickly raised eyebrows, with critics highlighting potential constitutional violations.
Q: “You mentioned that you’re open to deporting individuals that aren’t foreign aliens…Does that include U.S. citizens?”
Trump: “If they’re criminals…Yeah, that includes them…I’m all for it.” pic.twitter.com/XryniwMHug
— The Bulwark (@BulwarkOnline) April 14, 2025
Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10
Don't miss out on the news
Get the latest, most crucial news stories on the web – sent straight to your inbox for FREE as soon as they hit! Sign up for Email News Alerts in just 30 seconds!
Legal and Ethical Concerns
The proposal of deporting U.S. citizens to foreign prisons has consistently drawn backlash. Legal scholars argue such actions would be unconstitutional, given the United States’ obligation to prosecute and imprison its own citizens. Despite this, Trump insisted his team was “studying” the feasibility of the plan. “If it’s a homegrown criminal, I have no problem,” he told reporters, emphasizing that his focus is on “really bad people.”
Bukele’s Response to Trump’s Vision
President Bukele, a key ally in Trump’s migration policies, expressed willingness to cooperate. “In fact, Mr. President, you have 350 million people to liberate,” Bukele remarked, adding, “To liberate 350 million people, you have to imprison some.” His statement highlighted his country’s eagerness to assist, though questions remain about the logistics and legality of such arrangements.
Historical Context
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE THE DUPREE REPORT
This isn’t the first time the idea has been floated. Shortly after Trump’s inauguration, Bukele reportedly offered to house violent U.S. offenders. In February, Secretary of State Marco Rubio called Bukele’s offer “an act of extraordinary friendship,” despite acknowledging the legal hurdles involved.
Join the Conversation
What do you think about President Trump’s proposal? Could this unconventional idea work, or does it cross a legal and ethical line? Leave your thoughts in the comments below and share this article to spark discussion.
Follow The Dupree Report on WhatsApp.
Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10
Join the Discussion
COMMENTS POLICY: We have no tolerance for messages of violence, racism, vulgarity, obscenity or other such discourteous behavior. Thank you for contributing to a respectful and useful online dialogue.