A Texas lawmaker is taking a bold stand against violent gangs and cartels threatening American communities, introducing legislation that could change the game in border security.
Could cartels be made into terrorist organizations?
At a Glance
- Rep. Tony Gonzales introduces “Security First Act” to combat Venezuelan gang and Mexican cartels
- Bill aims to designate these groups as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs)
- Legislation proposes increased funding for Operation Stonegarden and border technology
- Bipartisan support and backing from law enforcement groups
- Act addresses growing threat of Tren de Aragua gang in multiple U.S. states
Gonzales Takes Aim at Violent Gangs and Cartels
Republican Congressman Tony Gonzales of Texas has introduced the “Security First Act,” a legislative proposal aimed at designating Mexican drug cartels and the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua (TdA) gang as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs). This move comes as a response to the growing threat these criminal organizations pose to American communities, particularly along the southern border.
It’s about time!
The proposed legislation seeks to empower law enforcement agencies with enhanced tools to combat these dangerous groups. By designating them as FTOs, the government would be able to take targeted actions against members, including implementing financial penalties and restricting support for these organizations.
Strengthening Border Security Measures
A key component of the Security First Act is the proposed increase in funding for Operation Stonegarden, a federal grant program that supports state and local law enforcement in their border security efforts. This additional funding would provide crucial resources to those on the front lines of protecting American communities from the influx of dangerous criminals.
The bill also calls for comprehensive reports on border technology needs and proposes stricter hiring practices for Customs and Border Protection. These measures aim to modernize and strengthen the nation’s border security infrastructure, ensuring that law enforcement agencies have the necessary tools and personnel to effectively combat these criminal organizations.
The Tren de Aragua gang, originating from Venezuelan prisons, has been expanding its presence in the United States. Texas, Colorado, and New York have seen a particularly concerning increase in TdA activity. Recognizing the severity of this threat, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has already declared TdA an FTO at the state level.
“Those of us that live along the border, you know, we don’t need a commission to tell us that we’re being terrorized, but some people do, but I feel very confident with this administration, with the way Trump has handled things and talked about it, is they would go along with that route,” Rep. Tony Gonzales said.
Bipartisan Support and Law Enforcement Backing
The Security First Act has garnered support from both sides of the aisle and received backing from prominent law enforcement groups, including the Southwestern Border Sheriff’s Coalition.
Given how the Democrats usually approach this issue, that’s a miracle!
This broad-based support underscores the urgency of addressing the threats posed by these criminal organizations and the potential effectiveness of the proposed measures.
“I personally went to Mexico. I personally dealt with these cartels when I was a state prosecutor. And they are a grave and violent threat to our country,” Pam Bondi, nominated for the Department of Justice, said.
As the Security First Act moves through the legislative process, it represents a significant step towards enhancing national security and protecting American communities from the growing threats posed by transnational criminal organizations.
Let’s hope the Democrats don’t stand in its way!