Crane Sounds Alarm: “Our Border Security Has Been Effectively Dismantled”

U.S. Representative Eli Crane held a town hall meeting at Native Grill and Wings in Maricopa on June 1, 2024, to discuss recent legislative successes. Last week, Crane’s team celebrated the passage of the Subterranean Border Defense Act in the U.S. House of Representatives, marking the third bill he has successfully advanced this session.

This bipartisan legislation aims to strengthen border security by ensuring Congress has the necessary data to counteract increasing threats posed by Transnational Criminal Organizations. Under current policies, illegal smuggling activities, including drug trafficking and human smuggling, have proliferated, utilizing sophisticated methods such as underground tunnels. Since 1990, nearly 150 such tunnels have been discovered, with activity surging by 80% since 2008.

Crane’s collaboration with California Democrat Rep. Lou Correa on this bill seeks to mandate annual reports from Customs and Border Patrol regarding counter-tunneling operations, enhancing congressional oversight. Previously, the agency was only required to submit a singular strategic plan report, which proved insufficient for ongoing challenges.

The Congressman emphasized that this and his earlier legislation reflect his commitment to supporting veterans, empowering tribal citizens, and fortifying U.S. borders. His legislative record demonstrates a successful bipartisan approach, evidenced by the smooth passage of bills like the Pleasant Valley Veterans Retreat Act, which received unanimous approval. This initiative allows Gila County to create a veterans’ center in northern Arizona, marking a significant milestone in support for rural veterans.

Additionally, Crane co-introduced the Native American Entrepreneurial Opportunity Act, aiming to enhance access to Small Business Administration programs for tribal entrepreneurs. This bill seeks to establish an Office of Native American Affairs within the SBA, tasked with fostering relationships and promoting assistance for business development among tribal communities.

These initiatives highlight Crane’s dedication to advocating for constituents while navigating a complex political landscape. He remains resolute in his mission to challenge bureaucratic obstacles that hinder progress for Arizona’s tribes and communities. With three bills passed during his tenure, Crane asserts his commitment to effective governance that prioritizes the needs of the people he represents.

Editor’s note: Eli Crane is the representative for Arizona’s 2nd Congressional District and serves on the House Committees on Homeland Security, Veterans Affairs, and Small Business. He is a former Navy SEAL with 13 years of military service, participating in five wartime deployments.