WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI) has launched a bipartisan task force to address escalating threats from Mexican cartels and transnational criminal organizations. The newly formed Cartel Task Force, announced on Wednesday, will work to develop actionable strategies to combat these groups, which are increasingly seen as a danger to U.S. national security and public safety.
Led by Congressman Dan Crenshaw (R-TX), the task force includes Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA-06), demonstrating a collaborative, cross-party focus. Other members of the group include Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO), who will serve as Minority Co-Lead, Congressman Darin LaHood (R-IL), and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA).
“The creation of the Cartel Task Force was the Committee’s actionable response to combat the top threats outlined in the ODNI’s 2025 Annual Threat Assessment,” said HPSCI Chairman Rick Crawford (R-AR). “This task force will identify ways the Intelligence Community can neutralize the evolving threats posed by cartels and transnational criminal organizations to U.S. homeland security.”
The newly established task force aligns with the findings of the 2025 Worldwide Threat Assessment by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), which emphasizes the growing threat posed by cartel activities. The group aims to develop robust policy measures addressing narcotics smuggling, human trafficking, arms dealing, and other illegal operations that undermine U.S. security.
“Our national security is not a partisan issue,” said Congressman Crow. “Cartels make us less safe by smuggling dangerous drugs like fentanyl into our communities and trafficking vulnerable women and children. I look forward to working as part of the Cartel Task Force to identify bipartisan solutions to these threats.”
For Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan, participation in the task force underscores her commitment to safeguarding the interests of Pennsylvania and the broader United States. Houlahan’s track record of bipartisan collaboration is a valuable asset to the group as it seeks practical solutions to complex issues.
Comprehensive Approach to Complex Security Concerns
The Cartel Task Force’s mission goes beyond the traditional parameters of law enforcement, drawing on insight from intelligence agencies and other stakeholders to craft a unified strategy. Congressman Crenshaw described the cartels’ escalation from predominantly drug-related activities to a broader “terrorist insurgency,” necessitating a renewed focus on collaboration between the United States and Mexico.
“This calls for a comprehensive strategy in cooperation with the Mexican government and the Trump administration,” said Crenshaw. He highlighted the urgency of thwarting illicit activities, citing increased cartel influence as a destabilizing force in the Western Hemisphere.
The task force’s efforts will feed into broader legislative initiatives, with its findings informing potential measures within HPSCI’s legislative jurisdiction. It will also work to achieve consensus with the Senate and the Trump administration to ensure effective, coordinated action.
Legislative Pathway and Leadership Commitment
The bipartisan composition of the task force reflects the shared commitment of lawmakers to address issues that transcend party lines. While specific legislative proposals are yet to be developed, the task force aims to bridge gaps between various stakeholders, emphasizing partnership with federal agencies.
Congresswoman Houlahan’s involvement underscores the importance of bringing diverse perspectives to the table. Her district, noted for its emphasis on both security and community resilience, stands to benefit from the policy outcomes of the task force’s work.
By focusing on key issues such as drug trafficking, human exploitation, and the destabilization in the region, the HPSCI Cartel Task Force aims to protect American lives and interests. With a bipartisan team at the helm, the group is tasked with a critical mission impacting the safety and security of the United States.
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