1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

The Trump administration's alleged deal allowing family members of a Sinaloa drug cartel leader to enter the U.S. raises serious concerns about potential conflicts of interest and undermining the rule of law. While the details are not fully known, any arrangement that provides preferential treatment or safe passage to individuals associated with powerful criminal organizations is highly problematic. It sends the wrong message and could incentivize further criminal activity if cartels believe they can negotiate favorable terms. The core mission of the justice system should be upholding the law equally for all, not making special accommodations for those engaged in drug trafficking and other illicit enterprises that fuel violence, addiction and human suffering. The American people deserve transparency about the circumstances of this arrangement and assurances that such deals will not be made going forward. The operation of the criminal justice system must remain impartial and immune from undue influence, political or otherwise. Compromising these principles jeopardizes public trust and the integrity of legal institutions.