Joined by representatives across the country, Texas Representative Joaquin Castro (D) introduced a House Resolution that reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to respect the sovereignty of Mexico as well as condemned calls for military action in Mexico without Mexico’s consent and U.S. congressional authorization.
The resolution was introduced with original co-sponsors including multiple Texas representatives such as Reps. Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Greg Casar (TX-35) and Jasmine Crockett (TX-30).
“Over the last several months, Americans have seen an alarming rise in reckless remarks that threaten to normalize the idea of invading Mexico,” said Congressman Joaquin Castro.
Rep. Castro’s comments come amid calls from Texas Representative Dan Crenshaw (R) to use military action in Mexico in order to address border security and drug smuggling. These requests are viewed, by some, as infringing on Mexican sovereignty.
“War with Mexico would cause devastating loss of life and would be disastrous for millions of Mexicans and Americans living in Mexico, as well as those in the U.S. whose livelihoods depend on legitimate cross-border trade. This resolution sends a strong message that the United States respects Mexico’s sovereignty and that Congress does not support dangerous calls for war at our Southern border.”
Rep. Garcia shared her excitement to be a part of “The No War With Mexico Resolution”. Furthermore, she stressed the idea that Congress plays an integral role in legislative decisions on war.
“I am proud to be a co-sponsor of The No War With Mexico Resolution, as it embodies the fundamental principles of sovereignty and upholding international law. This resolution is a testament to our commitment to our Constitution's essential system of checks and balances, emphasizing that the authority to engage in warfare resides with Congress,” said Congresswoman Garcia.
Garcia continued by emphasizing how important “terrorism designations” are. Moreover, the congresswoman stated her desire for the U.S. to strengthen its alliance with Mexico.
“It also underscores the imperative that terrorism designations should not be misused to justify military actions while reaffirming the President's duty to safeguard our nation against sudden threats. This will reiterate our dedication to strengthening the bonds of partnership with Mexico. Together, we stand united against the scourges of crime and violence, jointly working towards a safer and more secure future for our nations.”
Legislative Director for Foreign Policy for the Friends Committee on National Legislation, Heather Brandon-Smith, celebrated the measure introduced by Castro. In her statement, she shared her desire for pacifism while denouncing war in the process. Furthermore, Brandon-Smith pointed to the idea that the fentanyl crisis is also a health crisis, thus making the problems suitable to be dealt with by health services and not the military.
“The Friends Committee on National Legislation is proud to support Representative Castro’s resolution opposing the use of military force in Mexico in contravention of domestic and international law. Responding to the fentanyl epidemic with military force would militarize a public health challenge for which treatment and health services are desperately needed to help those suffering from drug dependence. As a Quaker organization, we know that war is not the answer. Representative Castro’s resolution is a common sense step to ensure we respect the sovereignty of our neighbor and focus on the needs of our most vulnerable,” said Brandon-Smith.
In other news, President Joe Biden (D) announced that his administration would allow border wall construction in South Texas. The administration waived 26 federal laws, in order to approve the measure.
