Attorney General of Montana Warns Newsmax: Mexico Attempting to Drive American Arms Manufacturers Out of Business

Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen told Newsmax on Tuesday that the Mexican government is attempting to financially ruin American firearms manufacturers through lawsuits related to the country’s gun violence issues.

In February, Mexico filed a $10 billion lawsuit against U.S. gun makers, alleging they are involved in cross-border gun trafficking that has contributed to a rise in violent crime. In addition to seeking billions in damages, the lawsuit aims to compel companies like Smith & Wesson, Colt, Glock, Beretta, and Ruger to modify their business practices.

“This is astonishing,” Knudsen said during an interview on Newsmax’s “Carl Higbie FRONTLINE.” “The First Circuit Court of Appeals allowed this case to proceed, even though the district court had rightfully dismissed it. This case falls under the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA), and it is inappropriate for a foreign government to try and bankrupt American manufacturers. The First Circuit made a mistake here.”

He referred to the First Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision earlier this year to revive Mexico’s 2021 lawsuit by overturning a lower court’s dismissal based on the PLCAA. The gun makers appealed to the Supreme Court in April.

Knudsen pointed out Mexico’s widespread corruption and lawlessness, as well as their strict gun control laws.

“Mexico has virtually eliminated private firearm ownership,” he said. “If gun control were the solution, Mexico would not have the crime issues it faces. Yet they are here trying to sue American manufacturers. This is out of control.”

He also mentioned that some of the guns Mexico is referring to in the lawsuit may have come from Operation Fast and Furious, conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives under the Obama administration.

Knudsen emphasized the importance of tort protection for these companies under the PLCAA.

“If these companies are manufacturing firearms that operate as intended, they are protected by the law,” he said. “These companies are shielded from liability. The intention of this law is clear. These companies are immune.”

He suggested that Democrats and liberals are behind Mexico’s legal action due to their opposition to immunity for gun manufacturers.

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