Arizona Gov. Hobbs takes on cartels and border through new executive order

Arizona’s Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs has unveiled plans to expand border security operations along the state’s four border counties, focusing on disrupting transnational criminal organizations (TCOs). The initiative, known as Operation Desert Guardian, will involve a joint task force comprised of state, local law enforcement, sheriffs, and federal agencies to combat TCO operations in Yuma, Pima, Santa Cruz, and Cochise counties.

Hobbs signed an executive order on Tuesday to formally establish Operation Desert Guardian, emphasizing the need to combat cartels, drug smuggling, human trafficking, and overall border security in Arizona. The operation’s primary objectives include identifying and addressing security vulnerabilities along the state’s approximately 370-mile southern border, as well as dismantling TCO supply chains and networks operating in the region.

Funding for Operation Desert Guardian will be sourced from the state’s Border Security Fund, which currently holds a balance of $28 million. The operation will also build upon the success of Task Force SAFE (Stopping Arizona’s Fentanyl Epidemic), a collaborative effort between U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Arizona National Guard to intercept drugs at ports of entry.

Since its inception in July 2024, Task Force SAFE has seized significant quantities of fentanyl pills, illicit drugs, and weapons at the border, contributing to efforts to combat drug trafficking and related crimes. Hobbs expressed confidence in the partnership with federal agencies and local law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration to enhance border security measures.

Following President Donald Trump’s re-election, Hobbs reiterated Arizona’s commitment to securing the border and expressed willingness to work with the federal government on shared priorities. She emphasized the importance of listening to experts and stakeholders on the ground to address border security effectively while rejecting policies that harm or threaten communities.

Meanwhile, state Republicans have proposed the “AZ ICE Act,” which seeks to establish cooperative agreements between law enforcement agencies and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to enforce immigration laws. The bill includes provisions for compliance with ICE detainers and aims to enhance cooperation in addressing illegal immigration.

As efforts to address border security and immigration enforcement continue, stakeholders are navigating complex policy challenges and seeking to strike a balance between enhancing security measures and addressing humanitarian concerns. Hobbs’ Operation Desert Guardian represents a significant step towards bolstering border security in Arizona and disrupting criminal activities perpetrated by transnational organizations.