WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Kay Granger (R-Fort Worth) released the following statement in response to the Administration’s announcement today of its plan to combat Mexican drug cartels and secure the border.

“I appreciate that the Departments of Homeland Security, State and Justice are finally recognizing the urgent need to confront the problems drug cartels are causing in Mexico and on our Southwest border. Innocent civilians are getting caught in the crossfire of an increasingly violent war between rival drug cartels.

“Congress has appropriated $700 million toward the Merida Initiative, to support President Calderon’s brave efforts to stop the corruption and violence caused by the drug gangs. Among the Merida measures is increasing air mobility for the Mexican Army and Air Force. I urge the Administration to speed up the delivery of the five helicopters that have already been funded and fulfill the Mexican government’s request for additional air assets for the police.”