Hinds Today

U.S. Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith and Katie Britt recently visited the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Key West and the Joint Interagency Task Force South headquarters to understand their efforts in tackling drug trafficking, illegal migration, and human trafficking along the southern maritime border.

Hyde-Smith and Britt, who are members of the Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee with Britt as the ranking member overseeing Coast Guard funding, were accompanied by Admiral Linda Fagan, Commandant of the Coast Guard.

"Most Americans are eager to see a much-needed increased focus on border security. As we prepare for the new Congress, I look forward to working with Coast Guard leadership and the new administration to reinforce our commitment to being a nation of laws, with national security as a top priority," Senator Hyde-Smith stated. "I appreciated the opportunity to visit with our brave service men and women as they uphold our laws and save lives."

Senator Britt expressed her admiration for the U.S. Coast Guard's dedication: "The U.S. Coast Guard’s commitment to protecting our maritime borders is nothing short of heroic, and I appreciated the opportunity to meet with many of the courageous Americans who patrol our seas and defend our shores. I will continue to make it a top priority in the new Congress to ensure the U.S. Coast Guard has the resources and support needed to keep our homeland safe and to strengthen our national security," she said. "I am grateful for Senator Hyde-Smith’s continued leadership and partnership as we work to advance solutions to combat drug and human trafficking."

During their visit in Florida, both senators gained insights into growing challenges faced by USCG Sector Key West and JIATF-S.