Ex-Navy SEAL Introduces CARTEL Act to Enhance Transparency on Border Threats

In a bold move to address the rising menace posed by Mexican drug cartels, a former Navy SEAL and current congressman is taking decisive action. Congressman Morgan Luttrell from Texas introduced the CARTEL Act on Thursday, seeking to illuminate the dangers associated with organized crime, particularly at the U.S. borders.

Luttrell expressed grave concerns regarding the impact of the Biden administration’s border policies. “Thanks to the Biden administration’s open-border policies, dangerous cartels have been running our borders and profiting from human and drug trafficking,” he stated in a conversation with Fox News Digital.

Legislation Details

The CARTEL Act aims to mandate that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) disclose whether individuals listed in the Terrorist Screening Database have been released into the United States. This critical reporting requirement is designed to provide greater visibility into who is entering the country.

Additionally, the legislation requires detailed tracking of individuals affiliated with cartels attempting illegal crossings. This accountability is expected to enhance public awareness of the threats posed by these groups.

Political Context and Recent Developments

The introduction of the CARTEL Act follows closely on the heels of President Donald Trump’s executive order, which pushes towards designating drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. According to the order, these organizations are a significant threat to the safety of the American people and the security of the United States.

The executive order specifically highlights the dangers posed by cartels, stating, “The Cartels have engaged in a campaign of violence and terror throughout the Western Hemisphere that has not only destabilized essential countries but also flooded the United States with deadly drugs, violent criminals, and vicious gangs.” This alarming situation underscores the urgency of addressing cartel operations.

Global Gang Activity

This legislative initiative also comes at a time when gangs from various Latin American countries, such as Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua and El Salvador’s MS-13, have become increasingly involved in activities that endanger U.S. security. Reports of gang-related violence and cartel influence have provoked widespread concern in the United States, emphasizing the need for vigilant legislative measures.

The Support Behind the CARTEL Act

Congressman Luttrell, a seasoned Navy SEAL with seven years of service, strongly believes the CARTEL Act will enhance transparency for Americans. It aims to ensure citizens are informed about who is attempting to enter the country and the potential risks involved.

The legislation has garnered support from several co-sponsors, including representatives Bryan Steil (R-Wis.), Daniel Webster (R-Fla.), Carlos Gimenez (R-Fla.), Andrew Garbarino (R-N.Y.), Jen Kiggans (R-Va.), and Randy Weber (R-Texas). The broad support indicates a collective recognition of the critical need for reform and accountability in border security.

Ensuring Safety and Accountability

In a written statement, Luttrell emphasized the necessity of the CARTEL Act. “Americans deserve to know exactly who is trying to enter our country,” he asserted. He reiterated that this act will provide essential transparency and accountability in the ongoing fight to secure U.S. borders and protect local communities from rampant crime.

As congress moves forward with this proposed legislation, the eyes of the nation are on the developments that could shape the future of border security and public safety in the United States.