Nation
Sen. Cotton introduces legislation to sanction drug cartels
This story was first published by The Dark Wire Investigation Foundation
Senator Tom Cotton, R-AR, introduced the Significant Transnational Criminal Organization Designation Act Tuesday to impose sanctions on drug cartels.
He is joined by Sens. Marsha Blackburn, R-TN, Josh Hawley, R-MO, and Ben Sasse, R-NE. Representative Mike Gallagher, R-WI, introduced companion legislation in the House as well.
“Criminal organizations and drug cartels that terrorize our communities and wage war at our borders ought to be treated just like terrorist groups in the eyes of the U.S. government. This bill would help stop cartel violence by ensuring these groups-and anyone who helps them-face dire consequences for their actions,” said Cotton in Tuesday’s press release.
If passed, the bill would allow the U.S. government to impose immigration, financial, and criminal penalties on transnational criminal organizations. Moreover, it seeks similar actions as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) designation would such as keeping cartel members and their immediate families from entering the U.S.
“Mexican cartels wreak havoc on our border and pose a direct threat to our national security. It’s past time we give the federal government every tool it needs to go after these thugs. From crippling sanctions to visa restrictions, this bill equips the administration to ensure these criminal organizations face severe consequences for their illicit activities,” said Gallagher.
In 2018, The Dark Wire produced “Not in Vein,” a film highlighting the deadly costs of the drug cartels’ trafficking of narcotics into the U.S. Click here to watch the full documentary.
Click here to read the full report.
In a turn of events, the House of Representatives made history on Friday with a vote to expel Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.), marking the first such expulsion in over two decades. A moment fraught with gravity unfolded as Speaker Mike Johnson wielded his gavel to formalize Santos’ removal, setting a precedent in congressional annals.
Santos, indicted on 23 counts related to wire fraud, identity theft, and other charges, has not faced conviction but stands accused of misusing campaign funds for opulent purchases. The bipartisan vote, tallying 311 to 114, signaled robust support for expulsion, with a marginally higher number of Republicans opting to retain Santos.
Questions loomed as Speaker Johnson left the chamber, his silence leaving the fate of the ongoing government spending battle uncertain. According to reports from Fox News, Democratic Rep. Steny Hoyer emphasized the non-partisan nature of the decision, asserting that members concluded Santos had tarnished the House’s reputation and was unfit for representation.
Within the GOP, conflicting opinions emerged, with Rep. Darrell Issa arguing against expulsion, citing the presumption of innocence. The tight-lipped stance of the House Ethics Committee played a pivotal role in the deliberations.
Conversely, members of the New York Republican delegation, led by Rep. Marc Molinaro, asserted Santos’ commission of crimes, justifying expulsion based on a comprehensive investigation.
Santos himself predicted the outcome in an exclusive morning interview on “FOX & Friends.” This vote not only underlines the House’s rare use of expulsion powers but also sets a critical precedent in handling members facing severe legal challenges.
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