Drugs flowing over the border pose a significant geopolitical concern, particularly with China serving as the primary source of precursor chemicals necessary for the production of fentanyl. This issue was highlighted by recent seizures of more than 124 pounds of fentanyl and cocaine by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials in the El Paso region. The drugs were hidden in vehicles and smuggled across the border in separate incidents.
The CBP’s efforts to intercept these drugs are crucial in preventing harm to communities. Former President Donald Trump criticized the Biden administration’s border policies for contributing to fatal drug overdoses in the United States. In contrast, President Trump’s campaign website outlined plans to combat drug trafficking, including imposing a naval embargo on cartels and designating them as Foreign Terrorist Organizations.
The Biden administration has taken steps to address the drug issue, including increased data sharing with Mexico to curb the flow of synthetic drugs. However, the fentanyl crisis in the U.S. is not just a drug problem but also a geopolitical concern. The majority of illicit fentanyl in the U.S. originates from China, where the government subsidizes its production and export. This has led to devastating consequences for Americans, as synthetic opioids like fentanyl are the primary driver of overdose deaths in the country.
The importance of securing the border to prevent the influx of illicit drugs, particularly fentanyl, cannot be overstated. Most of the illicit fentanyl in the U.S. is manufactured in Mexico using precursors sourced from China. This underscores the need for comprehensive border control measures to tackle the fentanyl crisis effectively.
Ted Cruz (R-Texas) claims Mexican cartels have full control of the southern border
This month, Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) penned a letter to President Biden, urging him to take executive action to close the southern border in response to the influx of illegal immigrants and drugs.
“In order to combat drug trafficking and individuals evading Border Patrol detection, it is essential to prevent Border Patrol agents from being involved in non-mission humanitarian tasks so they can focus on their primary responsibilities,” stated Senator Manchin.
