Tucson lawmaker calls for "bold and collaborative action" by the U.S. and Mexican governments
WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords is urging the departments of State and Homeland Security to immediately tackle the recent surge in border violence that is spilling over into Arizona.
In identical letters to Secretaries Hillary Rodham Clinton and Janet Napolitano, the Tucson lawmaker called for "a comprehensive approach to addressing the crisis on our southern border." She wrote that it is imperative to reduce the flow of fugitives, drugs and guns between the United States and Mexico.
"So far this year, over 1,000 homicides have occurred in Mexico due to fighting among competing drug cartels and the Mexican government compared to 6,000 homicides in 2008,"Giffords wrote. "In addition, Phoenix now ranks second in the world - after Mexico City - in kidnappings. This is unacceptable and it is clear that bold and collaborative action by the U.S. and Mexican governments is needed."
Click here for a copy of the letter to Secretary Clinton and Secretary Napolitano.