California seized over $506M in fentanyl since 2021, mainly at ports, with state-led efforts reducing crime and prompting calls for federal immigration accountability.

California has seized over $506 million in fentanyl since 2021, including more than 5 million doses and 34,357 pounds of the drug, primarily at major ports of entry, according to Governor Gavin Newsom. The effort, led by the California National Guard and Highway Patrol, includes expanded interdiction operations, canine detection training, and joint enforcement actions resulting in thousands of arrests and firearm seizures. Newsom highlighted $2.1 billion in state investments since 2019, citing reduced crime and enhanced public safety. He also criticized federal immigration enforcement, calling for accountability after incidents in Minneapolis and condemning the detention of a child and father, while the White House deferred comment.