Sen. Markwayne Mullin forcefully defended President Donald Trump’s national security strategy in the Caribbean during a Tuesday night appearance on Fox News Channel’s Hannity, calling the administration’s aggressive posture against narco-terrorist drug traffickers a “winning strategy.” Mullin sharply criticized Democrats who oppose the effort, arguing their resistance defies both facts and public safety realities.
Appearing with fill-in host Kellyanne Conway, the Oklahoma Republican addressed Democratic criticism of President Trump’s use of military authority to interdict and destroy vessels allegedly used by drug cartels. Conway highlighted what she described as inconsistency among Democrats who previously supported similar authorities but now oppose Trump’s actions. She named Kamala Harris, Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders, and Cory Booker as lawmakers who once voted for comparable measures.
Mullin responded by pointing to the scale of the drug crisis facing the United States. He stated that in 2024, more Americans died from drug overdoses than U.S. personnel lost during the entire Vietnam War. Mullin described that statistic as “insane” and argued it underscores the necessity of proactive military and law enforcement action beyond U.S. borders.
The senator said opposition to Trump’s approach stems from what he characterized as “deranged hatred” toward the president rather than substantive policy disagreement. He argued that waiting for drugs to reach American streets is unacceptable when traffickers can be stopped at sea. Mullin repeatedly framed the issue as one of protecting families, communities, and children from lethal narcotics.
Mullin also rejected claims that President Trump lacks the legal authority to carry out such operations. He noted that the same war powers and authorities have been used by multiple presidents for nearly 25 years. Mullin specifically referenced former President Barack Obama, stating that Obama used similar authorities hundreds of times, resulting in thousands of deaths, including U.S. citizens.
According to Mullin, the key difference is geography, not legality. He argued that drug cartels operating in the Western Hemisphere meet the definition of terrorist organizations due to their violence, funding mechanisms, and direct harm to American lives. Mullin questioned why proactive action against these groups would be considered controversial when the threat is clear and ongoing.
President Trump’s administration has expanded military and Coast Guard operations in the Caribbean Sea as part of a broader effort to combat drug trafficking and associated criminal networks. The strategy aligns with Trump’s stated commitment to border security, national sovereignty, and protecting American communities from fentanyl and other deadly drugs.
The remarks come amid continued debate in Washington over the scope of executive authority, military engagement, and drug enforcement policy. Mullin’s comments reflect growing Republican support for a more aggressive posture, particularly as overdose deaths remain a leading cause of death among younger Americans.
