Joe Rogan, the influential podcast host and vocal supporter of Donald Trump, has criticised the US president’s administration for deporting a Venezuelan asylum-seeker, calling it “horrific.” Rogan's comments came in response to the deportation of Andry Jose Hernandez Romero, a professional makeup artist and hairdresser, who was sent to a maximum-security prison in El Salvador despite claiming to face persecution due to his sexual orientation and political views.
During a March 29 episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan expressed shock over reports that Hernández Romero had been deported alongside an alleged member of the Venezuelan criminal gang Tren de Aragua. His guest, Triggernometry podcast co-host Konstantin Kisin, noted that Hernández Romero was “plucked out of nowhere” and sent to one of the most dangerous prisons in the world, despite not having any known criminal background.
'This Is Crazy That This Could Be Possible'
Rogan, who endorsed Trump for president last year, was particularly disturbed by the idea that non-criminals were being included in mass deportation efforts.
“It’s horrific,” Rogan responded. “This is crazy that that could be possible.” While Rogan has been a vocal critic of illegal immigration, he argued that innocent people should not be caught up in deportation policies.
“This is kind of crazy that that could be possible,” Rogan added. “And that’s bad for the cause. The cause is let’s get the gang members out—everybody agrees—but let’s not let innocent gay hairdressers get lumped up with the gangs.”
Controversial Deportation Amid Trump’s Crackdown
Hernández Romero had sought asylum in the US, stating that his life was at risk due to his sexual orientation and political stance. However, immigration authorities cited the crown tattoos on his wrists as evidence of gang affiliation, a claim he vehemently denied. His lawyer argued that he had been unfairly targeted and that his removal to El Salvador placed him in immediate danger.
Trump’s Mass Deportation Policy Under Scrutiny
Hernández Romero’s deportation comes as part of Trump’s aggressive immigration policies, which include mass deportations and strict border enforcement measures. The president has pledged to expel undocumented immigrants on a large scale, prioritising individuals with criminal backgrounds. However, critics argue that the sweeping nature of the policy has led to wrongful deportations and human rights concerns.