Border Politics and Fentanyl: Insights from Peter Andreas
Episode Overview
Trump's border policies resonate due to simple, effective messaging. Fentanyl smuggling is a key issue in U.S.-Mexico relations. Deportation numbers under Trump are lower than previous administrations. The global illicit economy is deeply intertwined with legal markets. Tariffs are being used politically to address drug and migration issues.
Trump has in some ways mastered the border game. His simple messaging about building a wall was brilliant.
Ever wondered why Trump's border policies still strike a chord with many, even though deportation numbers have dipped? In this episode of 'New Books in Drugs, Addiction and Recovery', Peter Andreas, the John Hay Professor of International Studies at Brown University, sits down with RBI Director John Torpey to shed light on the myths and realities surrounding border control, illicit trade, and tariffs during Trump's era.
Andreas, an expert in the field, brings his extensive knowledge from books like 'Border Games: The Politics of Policing the U.S.-Mexico Divide' and 'The Illicit Global Economy', to discuss the performative politics of border control. He explains why Trump's simple messaging about building a wall was so effective and how it evolved into a focus on deportations. The conversation touches on the complex relationship between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, particularly concerning fentanyl smuggling and tariffs.
Andreas debunks common misconceptions about the global illicit economy and emphasises the inseparability of legal and illegal markets. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the intricate dynamics of border politics and their broader implications. Dive into this engaging discussion to gain a deeper perspective on these pressing issues.