Rick Harrison Advocates for Action Against Fentanyl Epidemic

Rick Harrison, star of the reality television series “Pawn Stars,” has publicly expressed his support for former President Donald Trump in combating the fentanyl crisis in the United States. During an appearance on “The Sunday Briefing,” Harrison compared the impact of fentanyl to a “nuclear bomb” and labeled drug dealers as “terrorists.” His passionate remarks came nearly two years after the tragic death of his son, Adam Harrison, who died from an overdose linked to fentanyl and methamphetamine in January 2024.

Harrison emphasized the grave toll of the fentanyl epidemic, stating, “Drug overdoses kill over 100,000 people a year in this country.” He likened the situation to “dirty bombs going off in multiple cities,” underscoring the urgent need for action. Harrison praised Trump’s efforts to restrict the flow of fentanyl into the United States, reflecting his hope that such measures could save lives.

In his dialogue, Harrison expressed a desire for stricter penalties for those involved in the distribution of fentanyl. He stated, “I want anyone selling fentanyl to go to jail for the rest of their life. They’re selling poison. They’re killing people.” This call to action is particularly poignant given the circumstances surrounding his son’s death, which was ruled an accident by the Clark County, Nevada, coroner’s office.

The opioid crisis has become a significant public health issue, with fentanyl being identified as a primary contributor. According to the California Department of Public Health, fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Its prevalence, often in combination with other drugs, has led to a surge in overdose deaths across the nation.

During the interview, Harrison also criticized the current state of border security, stating, “Closing the border was absolutely amazing.” He attributed much of the fentanyl flow to lax border controls and praised Trump’s administration for prioritizing this issue early in his presidency. Harrison’s advocacy has gained traction as he continues to push for significant legislative action to combat the crisis.

Harrison’s son, Adam, had previously worked at the family-owned Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas, Nevada, although he did not appear on the show. Reports indicate that Adam had spent time in jail prior to his untimely death in a guesthouse in the Las Vegas area. Harrison’s personal loss has fueled his determination to address the fentanyl crisis and seek justice against those profiting from its distribution.

In conclusion, Rick Harrison’s passionate plea for action against the fentanyl epidemic highlights the human cost of the crisis. His advocacy for stricter penalties and border control reflects a broader societal call to address the devastating impact of drug overdoses in the United States. As the conversation surrounding this issue continues, the hope remains that more lives can be saved through decisive action and policy reform.