U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) has long been known for his advocacy on behalf of working families and his ability to work across party lines.
Brown’s recent efforts have focused on two critical areas for Ohioans: border security and the fight against fentanyl trafficking. Through bipartisan cooperation, Brown has pushed forward significant legislation designed to secure the U.S. southern border and combat the deadly opioid epidemic that has ravaged communities across Ohio and the nation.
Toughest Border Security Bill in Decades
Brown played a pivotal role in advancing a bipartisan border security bill widely regarded as the most stringent immigration reform in modern history. The legislation, described by CBS News as “one of the toughest border and immigration laws in modern history,” aimed to bolster security at the U.S.-Mexico border by providing much-needed resources and tools for enforcement agencies.
The bill would have funded the hiring of 1,500 new border agents, increased the use of technology to monitor illegal crossings, and empowered the government to swiftly deport violent criminals. In addition, the legislation tightened the asylum process by front-loading criminal history checks for migrants seeking refuge in the U.S.
“This proposed legislation would provide the strongest set of tools we have had in decades to effectively manage migration and enhance our nation’s border security,” said Troy Miller, acting commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, in a leaked internal memo. Miller highlighted the bill’s systemic reforms and its role in expanding Border Patrol authority.
Despite strong support from law enforcement agencies, including endorsements from the Border Patrol Council and CBP leadership, the legislation faced pushback from some Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, who declared the bill “dead on arrival” in the House.
Cracking Down on Fentanyl Trafficking
In a state that has been hit particularly hard by the opioid epidemic, Brown’s work to address the flow of fentanyl into Ohio has been central to his legislative agenda. In 2024, Brown’s FEND Off Fentanyl Act was signed into law, marking a significant step in combating the rise of fentanyl-related overdoses, which have devastated families and communities.
The law imposes sanctions on Mexican cartels and Chinese chemical suppliers responsible for producing and trafficking fentanyl into the U.S. It also equips law enforcement with the tools needed to dismantle fentanyl supply chains and prevent money laundering tied to the illegal drug trade. The bipartisan bill, which Brown co-sponsored with Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), was hailed by law enforcement agencies across the country for its comprehensive approach.
“Senators Tim Scott and Sherrod Brown have developed a comprehensive approach that codifies an existing executive order giving the president broad authority to attack fentanyl trafficking by using all the resources of the United States,” said Patrick Yoes, national president of the Fraternal Order of Police.
Brown’s leadership on the issue was praised by both local and national officials. Mahoning County Sheriff Jerry Greene welcomed the legislation, noting, “Fentanyl is what truly is killing our loved ones and our people out in the community. I applaud the hard work of Senator Brown to get the FEND Off Fentanyl Act signed into law.”
Leadership in Ohio’s Fight Against the Opioid Crisis
Ohio ranks among the states with the highest rates of fentanyl overdoses. The crisis has transcended partisan politics, with leaders from both parties acknowledging the urgent need for action. Brown has positioned himself as a bipartisan leader on this front, working closely with Republican colleagues to advance the FEND Off Fentanyl Act.
“The FEND Off Fentanyl Act will crack down on criminals in countries like China and Mexico who try to produce fentanyl or illegally import fentanyl into our communities,” said Hamilton County Sheriff Charmaine McGuffey. “This meaningful legislation will cut off the flow of fentanyl at the source and sanction chemical suppliers, criminal organizations, and drug cartels who traffic the drug.”
Brown’s work on border security and fentanyl trafficking is expected to play a significant role in his tough re-election campaign. The Ohio senator, who has been a fixture in state and national politics for decades, continues to emphasize his willingness to reach across the aisle to secure victories for his constituents.
