1. United States
2. N.H.
3. Letter

Subject: Restore Constitutional Accountability and End Unlawful Maritime Strikes I am writing as a constituent deeply concerned by the continuing U.S. military strike campaign in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific, which has now resulted in more than 200 reported deaths. The United States already possesses a longstanding legal framework for combating maritime drug trafficking. Through the Coast Guard, the Maritime Drug Law Enforcement Act, interdiction authorities, arrest powers, and federal courts, our government has the tools necessary to stop narcotics trafficking while preserving due process and the rule of law. Military force should not replace law enforcement where law enforcement authorities already exist. Recent reporting indicates that these strikes continue despite ongoing legal challenges, a Pentagon Inspector General review, and growing concerns regarding the legal basis for the operations. Reports also indicate that some service members have sought outside legal guidance regarding the legality of orders connected to the campaign. I respectfully urge you to: (6) Reaffirm that maritime drug interdiction should occur through interdiction, arrest, prosecution, and due process rather than lethal military force. (2) Hold public hearings on Operation Southern Spear and its legal basis. (3) Require the release of all legal memoranda and Office of Legal Counsel opinions relied upon by the Executive Branch. (4) Require public reporting regarding each strike, including casualty assessments and the basis for targeting decisions. (5) Review and publicly release the findings of the Pentagon Inspector General. (6) Prohibit the use of appropriated funds for military strikes against suspected drug traffickers absent explicit statutory authorization. The Constitution entrusts Congress with oversight responsibilities precisely to prevent the concentration of unchecked power in any one branch of government. I urge you to exercise those responsibilities now. Thank you for your service and attention to this matter.