Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis said last week that if he wins the White House, he would authorize the use of deadly force against Mexican criminal cartels that cross the southern border, CBS News reported.
While appearing on CBS News last Wednesday, DeSantis was asked by host Norah O’Donnell if he would commit US troops to “take out” Mexican cartels.
The Republican candidate said he was “going to lean in” and “defend our country.”
DeSantis recounted visiting the Arizona border where he saw repairs being made to the border fence after cartels had cut through it. He asked why cartels are still allowed to enter the United States carrying backpacks full of fentanyl and said in situations like this, he would authorize the use of deadly force.
When asked if he would “send missiles into Mexico,” DeSantis said all available tactics would be debated, adding that which tactic is used would depend on the situation.
DeSantis argued that cartels are “overrunning our border,” engaging in human trafficking, and bringing in “massive quantities” of narcotics. Describing the influx as an invasion, DeSantis suggested that the choice is either to “throw up our hands” in defeat or “take action.”
The presidential candidate said the use of force would only be used against the cartel and not against the illegal aliens flooding the border. He said for those attempting to enter the United States with “hostile intent,” the US would have “every right to take action.”
During the interview, DeSantis also addressed concerns about President Joe Biden and Donald Trump’s ages, telling Norah O’Donnell that the presidency isn’t a job for an 80-year-old.
He said while there is nothing wrong with being old, the country needs an “energetic president” since the job requires 100 percent.
Noting how many Washington politicians are over the age of 75, DeSantis suggested that if the Founders were given the opportunity, they would likely include a maximum age limit for elected office.
