A study in the journal Science has revealed that Mexican cartels, with 175,000 members, now rank as the fifth-largest employer in the country. The report raises urgent concerns for U.S. policymakers grappling with the fallout of cartel-driven violence and drug trafficking.
Cartels’ recruitment efforts are relentless, bringing in over 350 new members each week to replace those lost to violence or imprisonment. This growth fuels their ability to maintain control over territories and supply chains, directly impacting the U.S. through the smuggling of fentanyl and other drugs.
Drug cartels have become Mexico's 5th-largest employer https://t.co/xMVwvXj2QW
— Truth Toolbox (@TruthToolbox) December 31, 2024
The toll on American lives is devastating. Overdose deaths, many linked to cartel-supplied drugs, exceed 100,000 annually. Meanwhile, cartel violence increasingly spills across the southern border, threatening the safety of U.S. citizens and law enforcement.
¡Tremenda campaña negativa!
The Washington Times:
Drug cartels have become Mexico's 5th-largest employer
Some 175,000 people now actively work for Mexico's smuggling cartels, according to a shocking new estimate that would make them the country's fifth-largest private employer".— Alfredo Jalife-Rahme (@AlfredoJalife) December 31, 2024
President-elect Donald Trump has called for stronger measures against cartels, including military action to disrupt their operations. His national security adviser, Rep. Mike Waltz, has proposed using military resources to target cartel leaders and infrastructure, arguing that the U.S. cannot afford to allow these organizations to operate unchecked.
https://twitter.com/PetrovicSenex/status/1874166509976887717S
Experts stress that a multi-faceted approach is necessary. While enforcement is critical, addressing the economic and social conditions that drive cartel recruitment will be key to achieving lasting results. Without these efforts, the cartels’ influence is likely to grow even further.
How are we going to dismantle the cartels? — The cartels are the fifth largest employer in Mexico. https://t.co/spwI6ffzwm
— American Thinker (@AmericanThinker) December 31, 2024
The growing cartel crisis demands immediate attention from U.S. leaders. The safety and well-being of countless Americans depend on decisive and comprehensive action.
I bet they are toasting their newfound status in the top 5. Come on January 20th! We got some investigating to do!
— Richard Cowand (@rcowand16) December 31, 2024
