Joe Rogan Experience #1408 - Ed Calderon | Summary and Q&A

Transcript

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Summary

In this video, the guest discusses the violence and chaos caused by the cartels in Mexico. The conversation covers topics such as encountering cartel roadblocks, the theft of 4x4 trucks by cartels, the cartel's involvement in politics, their control over certain regions, money laundering, and the potential for the cartels to take over Mexico entirely. The guest also talks about his experience working for the Mexican government and the escalation of the drug war over the years.

Questions & Answers

Q: What should someone do if they encounter a cartel roadblock?

If someone encounters a cartel roadblock, the best course of action would be to slow down. However, it is advisable to try and avoid traveling through these areas altogether to ensure personal safety. Cartels often use roadblocks to monitor rival groups and government personnel, and they may demand bribes or even steal vehicles, especially 4x4 trucks, which are considered a valuable commodity for their purposes.

Q: How common is it for Americans' trucks to be stolen when crossing into Mexico?

The theft of trucks, particularly 4x4 trucks, is becoming increasingly common, especially in the Tamaulipas region of Mexico. Many of these stolen vehicles originate from American citizens crossing into Mexico. It is a growing concern and something that individuals should be aware of when traveling in these areas.

Q: Is it true that the cartels are diversifying their investments, including cryptocurrency and legitimate companies?

Yes, cartels have diversified their investments and money laundering methods. They are known to invest in cryptocurrency and legitimate companies to clean up their money. Additionally, they invest in real estate, hotels, and properties in the United States. They no longer hoard large stacks of cash but have found more sophisticated ways to store and transfer their funds.

Q: Which banks have been involved in money laundering for the cartels?

Several large banks have been implicated in money laundering for cartels, but specific names were not mentioned in the video. It is a serious issue that should be investigated further, as it opens up the possibility of funding terrorism through cartel activities.

Q: What are the potential consequences of designating cartels as terrorist organizations?

Designating cartels as terrorist organizations would have numerous consequences. It would enable direct military actions against them, potentially including drone strikes without the permission of the nation they are operating in. It would also allow for the targeting of cartel finances and any activities related to cartel operations. Furthermore, it would impact immigration and asylum claims, as individuals fleeing cartels could claim to be running from terrorists.

Q: Where do the cartels keep their cash?

The cartels have diversified their money storage methods. They no longer keep large amounts of cash in hidden containers like Pablo Escobar used to. Instead, they have turned to cryptocurrency and investments in legitimate companies to hide and clean their funds. They also invest in real estate, hotels, and properties, particularly on the US side of the border.

Q: Is it true that some major banks have been involved in money laundering for the cartels?

Yes, there have been cases of major banks being involved in money laundering for the cartels. Though specific names were not mentioned in the video, it is a serious issue that has been well-documented. This highlights the extent of corruption and the need for stricter regulations and investigations to counter the cartels' financial activities.

Q: Why are cartels not considered terrorist groups, considering their political influence and activities?

The traditional definition of a terrorist group includes having political aspirations. While cartels may not have explicit political objectives, they are known to influence politics through political killings, bribing politicians, and engaging in community outreach programs to gain support. Additionally, cartels' actions and impact can be classified as narco-terrorism. The approach to defining and combating these groups may need to be reevaluated to address the threat they pose.

Q: What is the current situation for the Mormon communities in Mexico?

The Mormon communities in Mexico, particularly in the Sonora and Chihuahua regions, have been affected by the violence caused by the cartels. Many have chosen to leave these communities due to the risks and danger involved. The situation has forced them to reevaluate their safety and consider relocating to safer areas. The violence has caused deep concern and the loss of trust in the local government's ability to protect them.

Q: Is Mexico on the path to being completely run by criminal organizations and drug sellers?

Some regions in Mexico are already under the control of criminal organizations and drug sellers. The power and influence of cartels have grown significantly over the years, and there are factions within the Mexican government that are corrupt and collude with specific cartels. The escalation of violence and the control exerted by the cartels suggest that Mexico is facing serious challenges in addressing this issue. It is important to recognize that this is not just a Mexican problem but a cross-border problem that requires a comprehensive approach to combat.

Takeaways

The cartels in Mexico pose a significant threat to the stability and security of the country. They have diversified their financial activities and have a significant influence in both the legal and illegal sectors. Designating cartels as terrorist organizations could have far-reaching consequences and impact immigration policies. The involvement of major banks in money laundering highlights the extent of corruption and the need for stricter regulations. The violence and control exerted by cartels continue to worsen, and more concerted efforts are needed to address this complex issue. Legalizing drugs may be one part of the solution, but it requires a comprehensive approach involving both Mexico and the United States.