U.S. Representative Mark Green (R-TN), Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security, has marked Human Trafficking Awareness Month by emphasizing the Trump administration's commitment to empowering the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to dismantle cartel control over the southern border. Green made this statement in a release dated January 9.

According to a news release from Homeland Security Republicans, Chairman Green recognized January as Human Trafficking Awareness Month and addressed the severe issues surrounding human trafficking. "We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to ending the historic border crisis that has enabled transnational criminal organizations to exploit innocent people," Green said. He added, "These grim realities are heartbreaking, but I am hopeful for change."

The House Homeland Security Committee has reported 11 million inadmissible encounters since 2021, with approximately 8.5 million occurring at the U.S.-Mexico border.

According to the same news release, there have been 500,000 unaccompanied alien children (UACs) encountered at the U.S.-Mexico border during the Biden Administration. Since 2021, 291,000 UACs entering the U.S. did not receive Notices to Appear in court, and 32,000 who were given notices did not appear.

The House Homeland Security Committee highlights that UACs are at risk from cartels involved in smuggling and human trafficking operations. Once in the U.S., these children face threats due to improper vetting of their sponsors or guardians. A whistleblower from the Department of Health and Human Services described the current UAC program as a "white-glove delivery service of children."

Green is a physician and has served as the U.S. Representative for Tennessee's 7th District since 2019. He is also part of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.