Amidst the pressing issues facing America today, few are as devastating and preventable as the fentanyl crisis, which former U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr recently attributed directly to China’s malign influence. During a critical congressional testimony, Barr laid bare the chilling details of how China is fueling a deadly epidemic on American soil.
Key Points from Bill Barr’s Testimony:
- China is the primary source of both illicit fentanyl and its precursors, substances critical to the drug’s manufacture which are wreaking havoc across the United States.
- During the bloodiest year of World War II, fewer Americans died than those now killed annually by drug overdoses in the U.S., highlighting the scale of the tragedy.
- With no viable alternative sources for the volume of these precursors, China’s role is not just significant—it’s essential.
Barr’s insights into the role of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in this crisis are particularly alarming. The CCP, far from being an uninvolved bystander, appears to be a central actor in promoting this trade. Investigations have uncovered a covert Chinese government website offering tax rebates to incentivize the export of fentanyl precursors. This setup allows companies involved in this trade to operate virtually tax-free, enhancing their profit margins and encouraging the continuation of their deadly exports.
Moreover, evidence suggests that the CCP is not just passively aware of these activities but actively supports them. The PRC’s modern surveillance capabilities are robust enough to monitor and control this trade. Yet, there appears to be no significant effort from China to curtail these operations, which could theoretically be shut down swiftly if the political will existed.
This complicity is even more glaring in the context of international relations, particularly following meetings between U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese leaders. There has been no noticeable change in China’s stance or actions regarding fentanyl, despite the ongoing dialogue and diplomatic engagements.
Why This Matters:
- Every day, 178 Americans die from overdoses involving opioids, including fentanyl.
- Fentanyl is up to 50 times more potent than heroin, making any exposure potentially lethal.
- The economic impact of the opioid crisis, including healthcare, lost productivity, addiction treatment, and criminal justice involvement, costs the U.S. over $78 billion annually.
As we approach the 2024 presidential elections, it’s crucial for voters to understand the stakes, particularly the external threats that compound our domestic challenges. The fentanyl crisis is not just a public health emergency; it’s a matter of national security.
For those committed to safeguarding America’s future, staying informed and demanding accountability from both our leaders and international actors like China is essential. We must push for policies that protect our borders, hold China accountable, and ultimately, save American lives.
Read more about how you can help and stay informed by subscribing to our newsletter. Together, we can make a difference.
