In a powerful address at the Department of Justice in Utah, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche outlined the government's unwavering commitment to combatting transnational crime and illegal immigration. Speaking under the bright lights of the venue, Blanche emphasized the urgency of the situation, declaring, "We will continue to hunt down cartel members throughout America, Mexico, South America, and everywhere in the world."

Blanche highlighted a significant recent development: the designation of MS-13 and various drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations by President Trump. This classification, he explained, empowers the Department of Justice to pursue terrorism charges against cartel members, reflecting the severe impact these groups have on communities across the nation. "They are terrorists," he stated, underscoring the multifaceted threats posed by these organizations beyond drug trafficking.

The Deputy Attorney General also addressed the pressing issue of illegal immigration, noting that since January 20, DOJ prosecutors have filed criminal cases against over 6,600 illegal aliens, with more than 3,000 of those cases originating in Arizona alone. He poignantly referenced the tragic murder of Wake County Sheriff Deputy Ned Bird, attributing his death to illegal aliens and emphasizing the real-world consequences of immigration issues.

To bolster enforcement efforts, Blanche announced the establishment of task forces in collaboration with Homeland Security, the FBI, and local law enforcement. These teams are dedicated to rigorously enforcing immigration laws and targeting members of criminal organizations. He pointed to the success of a task force in Virginia, which has already arrested over 220 gang members, as a model for future operations.

In closing, Blanche reaffirmed the administration's support for law enforcement officers, stating, "They are on the front lines in the fight against crime and illegal immigration, and we will have their backs." His remarks painted a picture of a determined government ready to tackle the challenges posed by crime and illegal immigration head-on, signaling a robust approach to maintaining safety and justice in American communities.