Mexican drug cartels now employ an estimated 175,000 members, making them the fifth-largest employer in the country. This alarming statistic highlights the scale of the crisis and its devastating impact on both sides of the border. A recent study emphasized the fifth-largest employer in Mexico.
Cartels recruit hundreds of individuals weekly, offsetting losses from violence and arrests. A study published in Science revealed that cartels maintain their numbers through relentless recruitment, which sustains their operations and influence. Without significant intervention, these organizations will continue to pose a threat to U.S. communities.
Drug cartels have become Mexico's 5th-largest employer https://t.co/xMVwvXj2QW
— Truth Toolbox (@TruthToolbox) December 31, 2024
The impact on Americans is catastrophic. Drug overdoses, driven largely by cartel-supplied fentanyl, claim over 100,000 lives each year. These organizations also play a major role in human trafficking and violence along the southern border, creating a ripple effect of crime and instability.
¡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 made tackling cartels a top priority. His administration has floated the idea of military intervention to dismantle cartel operations and secure the border. National security adviser Rep. Mike Waltz has advocated for using military force to target cartel leaders and infrastructure, a stance that reflects growing frustration with the status quo.
https://twitter.com/PetrovicSenex/status/1874166509976887717S
Critics argue that the cartels’ power is sustained by their deep integration into local economies and governance. Breaking this grip will require targeted strategies that address both the supply chain and the economic conditions that allow these organizations to flourish.
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
With cartels controlling significant territory and resources, the need for decisive U.S. action is urgent. Americans deserve protection from the violence and destruction these organizations bring.
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
