(LibertySociety.com) – The Trump administration’s decision to revoke Los Alegres del Barranco’s visas following their tribute to cartel leader “El Mencho” has sparked heated debate and widespread reactions.
At a Glance
- The U.S. State Department revoked the visas of Los Alegres del Barranco members after a concert featuring images of CJNG leader “El Mencho”.
- El Mencho leads the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, known for violent criminal activity.
- Christopher Landau announced the visa revocation, stressing the consequences of glorifying criminals.
- The Trump administration categorized CJNG and other Mexican cartels as foreign terrorist groups.
The Controversial Concert
The U.S. State Department revoked the visas of members from the Mexican band Los Alegres del Barranco after they projected images of CJNG’s leader, “El Mencho,” during a concert. This action followed significant backlash over glorifying a figure linked to notorious criminal activity. The video’s release by former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau highlighted the band’s act, resulting in official measures to deter the endorsement of criminal figures.
This cancellation has interrupted the band’s planned U.S. tour schedule, notably cancelling performances at prominent events, such as the Bésame Mucho festival in Austin. Los Alegres del Barranco, popular among Mexican and U.S. immigrant communities, now faces tightened scrutiny as authorities examine cultural portrayals of criminal figures.
Consequences and Reactions
Landau explained the decision, stating, “A Mexican band, ‘Los Alegres del Barranco,’ portrayed images glorifying drug kingpin ‘El Mencho’—head of the grotesquely violent CJNG cartel—at a recent concert in Mexico. I’m pleased to announce that the State Department has revoked the band members’ work and tourism visas. In the Trump Administration, we take seriously our responsibility over foreigners’ access to our country. The last thing we need is a welcome mat for people who extol criminals and terrorists.”
The Jalisco New Generation Cartel, part of six Mexican groups designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, poses significant threats due to its expansion through violence, corruption, and extortion. The DEA, emphasizing the organization’s threat, offered a $15-million reward for information leading to El Mencho’s capture. The Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum condemned the incident and called for further investigation.
Future Implications
The incident underscores the delicate balance between artistic expression and national security concerns. Pavel Morales, a band member, acknowledged their audience support on social media, yet critics, including Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus, advocate for accountability among performers promoting criminal imagery. Meanwhile, the State Department’s decision reaffirms their commitment to combating organized crime.
As international authorities collaborate to deter cartel influence, the U.S.’s proactive approach, characterized by visa revocations, highlights an ongoing effort against criminal glorification. This landmark decision impacts not only Los Alegres del Barranco but also sets a precedent for future cultural exchanges involving contentious figures.
Copyright 2025, LibertySociety.com
