Trump Administration Invokes State Secrets Privilege in Abrego Garcia’s Case

The administration also invoked the privilege in a case before Judge James Boasberg.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem speaks at U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak during a tour in Kodiak, Alaska, on March 17, 2025. AP Photo/Alex Brandon

President Donald Trump’s administration has invoked the state secrets privilege as a federal court probes for information surrounding Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s deportation to El Salvador.

Judge Paula Xinis of the District Court for the District of Maryland revealed the invocation on May 7 in an order requesting briefing from the administration.