Part 2/9:
The language of the executive order paints a stark picture of the cartels’ influence and operations. It describes them as engaged in "a campaign of violence and terror" throughout the Western Hemisphere, asserting that they destabilize nations crucial to U.S. interests and flood American streets with dangerous drugs, specifically mentioning fentanyl. The order characterizes the cartels as operating almost like governmental entities, wielding power and control over substantial portions of society, and suggests that their activities pose a "national security risk" to the United States.