Sen. Josh McLaurin Releases Statement Addressing Imminent Deportation Ruling Regarding Journalist Mario Guevara

ATLANTA (September 19, 2025)-On Friday, September 19, Sen. Josh McLaurin (D-Sandy Springs) held a press conference and released a statement following a ruling by an immigration appeals court to dismiss Atlanta journalist Mario Guevara's case and mandate his deportation from the United States.

"Today, an immigration agency that takes orders from the Trump administration reversed 13 years of legal proceedings to unilaterally deport journalist Mario Guevara. This is yet another example of the Trump administration's pervasive attempts to stifle journalists and media from doing honest reporting or speaking unfavorably about the administration. This is one of the most dangerous periods for free speech in American history."

Guevara, who has lawfully resided in the United States for over 20 years, was detained by ICE on June 18 while wearing a press badge. Although all charges against him have since been dropped, he remains in ICE custody and is imminently facing deportation to his home country of El Salvador. Guevara has developed a large following in Atlanta and gained national recognition for his reporting on immigration issues.

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Sen. Josh McLaurin represents the 14th Senate District, which includes a portion of Fulton County. He may be reached by phone at (404) 463-4228 or by email at [email protected].

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