Arizona Governor Launches ‘Operation Desert Guardian’ to Strengthen Border Security Gaps

Governor Katie Hobbs of Arizona has taken a strong stand in tackling the ongoing issues at the state’s southern border, spanning a stretch of 370 miles, by forming a multi-agency task force. This initiative, known as Operation Desert Guardian, is gearing up to identify and rectify security weaknesses in four key counties.

In a determined move, Hobbs signed Executive Order 2025-01, bringing together the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs, the Department of Public Safety, and the Department of Homeland Security.

Governor Hobbs expressed her firm commitment to this cause, stating, “I’m proud to launch Operation Desert Guardian to combat the cartels, stop drug smuggling and human trafficking, and secure Arizona’s border.”

Highlighting the collaborative effort, she noted ongoing discussions with federal and local officials to ensure a unified approach. This action follows a broader national focus on border security, an issue that was notably emphasized during President Donald Trump’s administration.

In fiscal year 2024, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recorded over 2.13 million encounters with illegal immigrants at the Southwest border, a significant decrease from the previous year. In January alone, CBP data showed 61,465 border encounters, underscoring the persistent challenges.

Operation Desert Guardian aims to work closely with local law enforcement and federal agencies to dismantle transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) operating within Yuma, Pima, Santa Cruz, and Cochise counties.

The task force’s objectives are clear: pinpoint and address security gaps while curbing crimes linked to TCOs by targeting their supply chains and networks. To fund this endeavor, Governor Hobbs plans to utilize part of the $28 million available in Arizona’s border security fund. Building on past efforts, the governor pointed to Task Force SAFE, a joint initiative between the Arizona National Guard and CBP, which has already intercepted significant quantities of illegal drugs.

These efforts have been particularly successful, preventing over 19 million fentanyl pills, 6,598 pounds of various illegal drugs, and 237 firearms from crossing into the U.S. The current administration has also allocated more than $100 million to bolster local law enforcement in tackling illegal crossings and drug trafficking.

Furthermore, a Border Coordination Office within the Arizona Department of Homeland Security has been established to foster collaboration between various agencies.

Governor Hobbs has also sought over $500 million from the Biden administration to cover state expenses related to border security. She has made it clear that state resources will not be used to indiscriminately target individuals, particularly Dreamers, or enforce immigration laws in sensitive areas like churches and schools, barring violent offenders. Meanwhile, Arizona’s House Republicans have put forth legislation to allocate $50 million from the state’s general fund to support local border initiatives.

This proposed funding aims to enhance drug interception efforts and apprehend offenders at the border. It also focuses on dismantling human smuggling operations and addressing other border-related crimes.

In addition, Arizona voters have shown their support for tougher border security measures by passing Proposition 314, the Border Security Act, which expands the role of local law enforcement in dealing with illegal immigrants.

However, in March 2024, Governor Hobbs vetoed Senate Bill 1231, which sought to criminalize illegal border crossings outside designated ports of entry. This decision reflects a nuanced approach to border security, balancing strict enforcement with a consideration for the complexities of immigration issues. By taking these steps, Arizona aims to fortify its border security while addressing the multifaceted challenges that come with it.

With these efforts, Governor Hobbs is not only addressing immediate threats but also laying a foundation for long-term solutions to ensure safety and security. Her administration’s active role in seeking federal support and coordinating with various agencies underscores the importance of a united front in tackling border issues.

As Arizona moves forward with Operation Desert Guardian, the focus remains on strategic partnerships and effective enforcement to uphold the rule of law.