Senator Mike Lee Proposes Reviving Letters of Marque to Combat Drug Cartels

The plan would authorize private citizens or firms to disrupt cartel operations, with support from Elon Musk and Donald Trump Jr.

Senator Mike Lee suggests issuing letters of marque to allow private security firms or trained civilians to target drug cartels' supply chains and assets.
The proposal, grounded in a constitutional provision, would enable privateers to seize non-contraband assets like cash, gold, and vehicles for compensation.
Elon Musk and Donald Trump Jr. publicly endorsed the idea, citing its potential for rapid implementation against cartel threats.
Critics, including legal experts, raise concerns about logistical challenges, such as monetizing seized assets and the modern applicability of the practice.
The proposal aims to reduce taxpayer costs and provide an alternative to military action, though it has sparked debate on its feasibility and ethics.