This week marks National Gang Violence Prevention Week, a time to extend our heartfelt condolences and unwavering solidarity to families devastated by the impact of gang violence. We take a moment to remember and honor the lives that have been senselessly taken by nefarious individuals—a grim reminder of the fractures in our society. Our paramount goal remains clear: to eradicate the threat posed by violent gangs, cartels, and drug traffickers, and to reclaim the safety of our streets.
The previous administration bore witness to an unchecked surge of gangs and cartels infiltrating our nation, largely facilitated by a porous southern border, leading to an unprecedented wave of violence and chaos. Notorious gangs, such as Tren de Aragua, were allowed to operate with impunity, terrorizing communities and contributing to the tragic loss of many innocent lives.
This disgraceful chapter in our history began to close on January 20, 2025. Upon assuming office, I promptly declared a National Emergency at our southern border and classified the malevolent MS-13 and Tren de Aragua gangs as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, aiming to put an end to their reign of terror. I am proud to have initiated the most extensive mass deportation campaign in American history, successfully removing thousands of violent offenders from our neighborhoods. Earlier this year, I also enacted the One Big Beautiful Bill, which channels extensive funding toward building hundreds of miles of new border wall and bolstering the capabilities of Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. This legislation aims to empower law enforcement to identify, apprehend, and deport dangerous criminals, while also dismantling drug and human trafficking networks.
As we observe this week dedicated to remembrance, we honor victims and support their families affected by gang violence. Our deepest gratitude extends to the courageous men and women of law enforcement who tirelessly combat these ruthless entities. Under my administration’s guidance, we are steadily restoring law and order across American cities, reaffirming our national sovereignty, and ensuring that children and families can pursue their American dream without the shadow of gang violence looming over them.
