Slate News What Next | The Lives Ruined by Trump's Deportation Machine
Apr 3, 2025
Jonathan Blitzer, a staff writer at The New Yorker and expert on immigration, joins Nick Miroff from The Atlantic, who reports on deportation practices. They discuss the alarming deportation of 238 men to a controversial facility in El Salvador, exposing deep flaws in U.S. immigration policy. The conversation highlights the dehumanization faced by detainees, including the gripping story of Andrei, a Venezuelan seeking asylum. They also delve into cases of wrongful deportations, underscoring the emotional toll on families and the systemic injustices within the immigration system.
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Andre's Asylum Case
- Andrei Jose Hernandez Romero, a Venezuelan makeup artist, sought asylum in the U.S.
- He was targeted for being gay and not supporting the Venezuelan regime.
Misinterpretation of Tattoos
- U.S. border agents often misinterpret tattoos as gang symbols.
- Andrei's crown tattoos, signifying a local Three Kings Day celebration, were mistaken for gang affiliation.
Detention and Transfer
- Despite passing his credible fear interview, Andrei remained detained due to his tattoos.
- He was transferred to Texas without his lawyer's knowledge, likely for deportation under the Alien Enemies Act.
