Political Shadows: The Rise of Tren de Aragua

This chapter examines the impact of the Trenda Aragua criminal organization on U.S. politics during the 2024 election, particularly through the lens of the Trump campaign's criticisms of Biden's border policies. It explores the origins of the organization in Venezuela, the socio-political dynamics that enabled its rise, and the complexities surrounding its operations and government relations. The discussion also highlights the evolution of organized crime in Venezuela, contrasting it with larger criminal networks in Mexico and Colombia, set against the backdrop of shifting policing policies under Hugo Chavez.