Gentner Drummond, the Attorney General of Oklahoma, recently testified before the U.S. House of Representatives' Committee on Homeland Security concerning the potential impeachment of U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. Drummond underscored the urgency to address the drug crisis.
In his opening remarks, Drummond stated, "Mr. Chairman, members of the committee, I believe it is time for accountability." He continued by expressing his concerns about the safety and well-being of Oklahomans: "The people of Oklahoma don’t deserve to live under constant threat from criminal foreign nationals," and "The people of Oklahoma don’t deserve to have their communities flooded with illegal drugs that were smuggled across our unsecure border." He also empathized with families affected by drug-related issues: "Oklahoma families don’t deserve to have their loved ones ripped away by those same drugs."
Drummond further elaborated in his written testimony that fentanyl has replaced marijuana as the "contraband of choice" in recent years in Oklahoma. He reported an "unprecedented level of partnership" between Mexico and China regarding this trade, with Chinese nationals assisting in opioid production destined for smuggling into the United States via the southern border. He highlighted the lucrative nature of this illicit trade; producers can manufacture "500 pills at an expense of about 10 cents", while a single pill can fetch "between $10 and $20" on the street.
Drummond also emphasized during his testimony that the current state at the southern border requires immediate attention. "While there have been great successes, the ongoing border crisis ensures a never-ending flood of illegal foreign nationals who continue to perpetrate crimes that endanger our people," he said.
According to his biography on the Office of Attorney General website, Drummond has served as Oklahoma's 19th attorney general since 2023 and boasts nearly three decades of legal experience. His resume includes founding "Drummond Law" in Tulsa, serving as an assistant district attorney, and holding roles as a rancher, banker, and businessman. He is also a decorated U.S. Air Force pilot from the Persian Gulf War. His priorities include combating organized crime and improving tribal relations.
The Committee on Homeland Security was initially formed in 2002 following the September 11 terrorist attack, according to its website. It wasn't until 2003 that it was formally recognized as a "Standing Committee of the House". The committee's primary role is to protect American citizens from terrorist attacks by developing and implementing policies and legislation.
