CNN Host Shuts Down GOP Strategist's Excuse for Deadly Deportation

Abby Phillip confronts Scott Jennings over the death of a nearly-blind refugee from Myanmar

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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CNN host Abby Phillip shut down a prominent GOP strategist's attempt to defend a deadly deportation operation conducted by President Donald Trump's immigration forces. The Department of Homeland Security left a nearly-blind refugee from Myanmar named Nurul Amin Shah Alam outside of a closed Tim Hortons coffee shop in Buffalo, New York, about five miles from the man's home. Alam was found dead five days later still wearing the socks he received in jail, even though federal authorities had determined he was not eligible for deportation.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about the treatment of immigrants and refugees by U.S. immigration authorities, with critics arguing that the deportation process often fails to respect human life and dignity. It also raises questions about accountability and oversight within the immigration enforcement system.

The details

According to the report, Alam was a refugee from Myanmar who was nearly blind. After being released from a county jail, federal immigration authorities dropped him off outside a closed Tim Hortons coffee shop in Buffalo, about five miles from his home. Alam was found dead five days later, still wearing the socks he had on when released from jail. Authorities had previously determined that Alam was not eligible for deportation.

  • On February 27, 2026, CNN reported on Alam's death.
  • Alam was dropped off outside the Tim Hortons and found dead five days later.

The players

Abby Phillip

A CNN host who confronted a GOP strategist about the death of Nurul Amin Shah Alam.

Scott Jennings

A prominent GOP strategist who attempted to downplay the significance of Alam's death.

Nurul Amin Shah Alam

A nearly-blind refugee from Myanmar who died after being dropped off by immigration authorities outside a closed coffee shop, despite not being eligible for deportation.

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What they’re saying

“I think some people would say there is a way to do this that respects human life. Respects the lives of people who are here, trying to seek a better life, trying to do the best they can, and doesn't treat them as disposable.”

— Abby Phillip, CNN Host (CNN)

“Do I think it's reasonable to assume you're going to have individual interactions where something goes awry, where a detail is missed…”

— Scott Jennings, GOP Strategist (CNN)

What’s next

The Department of Homeland Security has said it will investigate the circumstances surrounding Alam's death, and there are calls for greater oversight and accountability within the immigration enforcement system.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the ongoing human toll of the U.S. immigration enforcement system, and the need for reforms that prioritize the dignity and safety of all individuals, regardless of their immigration status.