Montgomery, AL – Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has joined a 16-state coalition supporting President Donald Trump’s recent efforts to combat the rise of violent drug cartels operating across U.S. borders. The coalition, led by Georgia, commends the President’s actions as a constitutionally valid use of his authority as Commander in Chief to protect national security and public safety.
The attorneys general argue that the illegal drug trade is fueling violent crime, endangering law enforcement, and straining public health systems nationwide. They have also called on Congress to take further legislative action to address the ongoing crisis.
“As a nation, we are at a critical point where bold and decisive action is necessary to stop the relentless flow of illegal drugs brought in by dangerous cartels,” said Attorney General Marshall. “President Trump’s commitment to protecting Americans means peace through strength. I am extremely proud of the President for taking a strong stand and targeting cartel operations. This is exactly the kind of strategic reforms our country deserves.”
In a letter sent to President Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, the attorneys general cited U.S. Customs and Border Protection data showing that in fiscal year 2024, agents seized nearly 22,000 pounds of fentanyl smuggled by cartels — enough to kill the U.S. population 14 times over. The coalition’s letter also notes that fentanyl-related deaths now rival the total number of U.S. military casualties from World War II.
The statement highlights how drug trafficking is linked to gang violence, human trafficking, and organized retail crime, as well as its growing impact on public health through addiction, overdoses, and the spread of infectious diseases.
Alongside Alabama, the states joining the Georgia-led coalition include Arkansas, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, North Dakota, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and West Virginia.
