Apple News Today: The Foreign Leader Helping Trump Defy the Supreme Court
Release Date: April 18, 2025
Host: Shemita Basu

Introduction

In this episode of Apple News Today, host Shemita Basu delves into a multifaceted discussion surrounding former President Donald Trump's ongoing defiance of a Supreme Court order, his alliance with Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, and the broader implications for U.S. immigration and international relations. Additionally, Basu touches upon other pressing news stories, including a federal indictment related to United Healthcare, tensions in Gaza, and creative Easter traditions amidst economic challenges.

Trump's Defiance and Kilmar Abrego Garcia's Detention

The episode opens with a significant focus on former President Donald Trump's resistance to a Supreme Court order mandating the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia. Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident with no criminal record, was wrongfully deported to El Salvador by the Trump administration and is currently incarcerated in one of the country's harshest prisons.

Key Points:

• Denial of Visits: Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen attempted to visit Abrego Garcia but was initially denied entry to the prison. Later, Van Hollen met him at a nearby hotel to ensure his well-being and emphasize his right to due process.

• Nayib Bukele's Role: Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele is identified as the architect behind Abrego Garcia's detention and the broader deportation of hundreds of migrants during Trump's tenure. Bukele's unwavering stance against releasing Abrego Garcia is highlighted as a critical element of his alliance with Trump.

Notable Quote:

"The government's argument that the US Courts cannot do anything once a deportee has crossed the border is, quote, plainly wrong."
— Vera Bergengrun, [07:34]

In-Depth with Vera Bergengrun: Nayib Bukele's Authoritarian Rise

To shed light on President Nayib Bukele's growing influence and his partnership with Trump, Basu interviews Vera Bergengrun, a national security reporter at the Wall Street Journal. Bergengrun provides a comprehensive analysis of Bukele's background, his strategic rebranding of El Salvador, and the implications of his authoritarian measures.

Key Insights:

• Rebranding Strategy: Bukele, originating from a wealthy family with an advertising background, has meticulously rebranded El Salvador from a country plagued by gang violence to a "land of surf, volcanoes, and coffee." This image resonates strongly with right-wing and MAGA (Make America Great Again) supporters in the U.S.

• Authoritarian Tactics: Bukele's governance style mirrors populist authoritarianism. He has systematically dismantled democratic institutions by removing judges and lawmakers who oppose him, effectively establishing a one-party state. Bergengrun notes that Bukele's methods are becoming a "MAGA fever dream," appealing to Americans who prioritize security over democratic norms.

Notable Quotes:

"He has cinematic TikTok videos showing the harsh treatment in his prisons... comments from all over the world are saying, we need our own Bukele in Ethiopia, in Netherlands, it is overwhelmingly positive."
— Vera Bergengrun, [09:06]

"Bukele has incarcerated one out of every 57 people in his country. It's the highest incarceration rate in the world."
— Shemita Basu referencing Bergengrun's reporting, [03:10]

Legal and International Implications:

Bergengrun discusses the unprecedented nature of the U.S. potentially deporting its citizens to foreign prisons like those in El Salvador. She highlights the constitutional challenges and the lack of a legal framework to address such actions, raising concerns about the long-term feasibility and the potential for other nations to adopt similar models.

Notable Quote:

"When I interviewed him last year, he could not have imagined that the US Would be paying him to deport people to his own prison... it's almost like he feels like all of these countries are coming around to his model."
— Vera Bergengrun, [05:36]

Risks of Authoritarian Legitimization:

The conversation also touches upon the dangers of the U.S. legitimizing Bukele's regime, which could inspire other countries to emulate his authoritarian approach to governance and security, potentially undermining democratic institutions globally.

Notable Quote:

"There's a simplicity to what Bukele is doing that is difficult to fight, like the idea that if somebody is a violent criminal, you should just lock him up... it's such a simple message that is really difficult for human rights concerns, due process concerns, to fight in this moment."
— Vera Bergengrun, [09:06]

Additional News Highlights

Following the in-depth discussion on Bukele and Trump's alliance, Basu transitions to other significant news stories:

1. Federal Indictment in United Healthcare CEO Killing:

   • Luigi Mangioni has been federally indicted on murder charges in the killing of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The charge carries a maximum penalty of death if convicted. Mangioni, accused of the Florida State University shooting, pleaded not guilty to state charges of murder and terrorism. The incident resulted in at least two fatalities and six hospitalizations. Notably, the weapon used belonged to Mangioni's mother, a long-serving sheriff's deputy.

2. Gaza Negotiations:

   • Hamas has expressed willingness to negotiate the release of remaining hostages and end the ongoing conflict. However, negotiations have stalled, with Israel rejecting interim deals unless Hamas disarms. The recent Israeli proposal for a 45-day truce was met with rejection from Hamas, which insists on no immediate disarmament.

3. Easter Traditions Amid High Egg Prices:

   • Due to the persistent rise in egg prices, many are opting for creative alternatives to traditional Easter egg hunts. Suggestions include using "Pa Potatoes" and marshmallows, particularly marshmallow peeps produced in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. ABC News has provided a guide for these alternatives, ensuring that Easter celebrations continue despite economic constraints.

Conclusion

Shemita Basu wraps up the episode by highlighting the interconnectedness of U.S. domestic policies and international alliances, emphasizing the profound impact of Trump's actions on both national and global scales. The episode underscores the complexities of immigration, authoritarianism, and international diplomacy, offering listeners a comprehensive overview of current events shaping the world.

Notable Final Quote:

"Beware of a government that pretends to be your friend, because if they don't use laws, they don't use principles. Principles, they can turn into your enemy very quickly."
— Vera Bergengrun, [13:14]

For more detailed coverage and updates on these stories, listeners can access the full episode through the Apple News app or follow Apple Podcasts.