Top border lawmaker pushes to declare bloodthirsty gang a terrorist organization: ‘Take the gloves off’

Republican Congressman Tony Gonzales is taking a bold step to combat the growing threat of the Tren de Aragua (TdA) and Mexican cartels by introducing the “Security First Act.” This legislation aims to push for the designation of these criminal organizations as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs), allowing for targeted action against their members and imposing financial penalties on those who support them.

A designation as an FTO would make it illegal for anyone to provide support or resources to these groups, with financial institutions required to report any funds linked to them to the Treasury. Additionally, the State Department notes that designations serve as a deterrent for donations and support, helping to curb their financing.

Gonzales’ bill also seeks to increase funding for Operation Stonegarden, a federal grant program that provides resources to states and local law enforcement for border security. It calls for reports on the technology needed to prevent terrorists from entering the U.S. and on Customs and Border Protection hiring practices.

The presence of TdA, a violent gang believed to have originated in Venezuelan prisons, has been on the rise at the southern border, spreading to states like Texas, Colorado, and New York. Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared TdA an FTO last year and established a database to identify members among arrestees. Now, Gonzales is pushing for further action against this bloodthirsty gang.

“It’s time to call them what they are, they’re terrorist organizations, and they terrorize our community,” Gonzales stated. He emphasized the need to take decisive action against these groups and expressed confidence in the current administration’s willingness to address the issue.

While the bill does not directly declare TdA an FTO, it urges the secretary of state to consider such a designation. Gonzales believes this aligns with the administration’s stance and points to bipartisan support for tougher measures on immigration and border security.

The threat posed by TdA extends beyond the border states, making it a national concern. Gonzales stressed the importance of labeling them as terrorist organizations to enable law enforcement to combat their presence in all 50 states.

The Security First Act has garnered support from sheriff groups in the region, who see it as a vital tool in enhancing border security and cracking down on criminal organizations. Gonzales, known for his bipartisan approach to border security, remains optimistic about the bill’s potential impact given the shifting attitudes on immigration among some Democrats.

As the fight against TdA and Mexican cartels intensifies, Gonzales is leading the charge to ensure the safety and security of American communities. The Security First Act represents a crucial step towards addressing this pressing issue and safeguarding the nation from the threat posed by these ruthless criminal organizations.