House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers delivered opening remarks on Mar. 17 at a hearing focused on the U.S. military posture and security challenges in the Western Hemisphere.
The hearing marked the start of fiscal year 2027 posture hearings with U.S. Northern and Southern Commands, addressing border security, drug trafficking, and foreign influence in the region. The House Armed Services Committee oversees national defense programs and agencies, including the Armed Forces, as outlined by its official website.
Rogers said that under President Trump, operational control of the southern border has been achieved, illegal crossings have reached record lows, violent criminals are being deported, fentanyl trafficking is down by more than half, overdose deaths are declining nationwide, and crime rates have dropped—especially in cities where the National Guard supports local law enforcement. "President Trump came into office pledging to fix these failures. One year later, we are seeing the results," Rogers said.
He also highlighted efforts beyond border security: "Operation Southern Spear is dismantling cartel networks before their drugs cross our border." Rogers noted that maritime narcotics trafficking has been reduced and referenced a mission bringing Nicolás Maduro to justice as evidence of a strong stance against threats in the hemisphere.
Rogers commended the administration for forming the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition with 17 countries to combat cartels involved in drug trafficking and illegal migration. He emphasized partnerships with regional allies to counter China's growing influence through investments in ports, telecommunications networks, critical minerals processing, and other infrastructure projects across Latin America. "These investments are not benign. They are part of a deliberate strategy to expand Beijing’s influence in our hemisphere and undermine U.S. security," he said.
The committee includes members such as Reps. Joe Wilson, Michael R. Turner and Robert J. Wittman according to its official website. It operates under jurisdiction defined by Rule X of the U.S. House Rules for matters related to national defense according to its official website, influencing legislation through processes like the National Defense Authorization Act for community project funding according to its official website. The committee falls under congressional oversight for national defense affairs according to its official website.
Looking ahead, Rogers said he looks forward to testimony from military leaders about ongoing efforts to secure borders and improve homeland defense.
