Christina Morales Calls for Humane Immigration Policies at South Texas Builders Forum

At the South Texas Builders Association forum in Edinburg, Texas State Rep. Christina Morales emphasized the need for humane immigration policies. Representing House District 145, which includes Houston's East End, she highlighted the contributions of immigrant communities to the state's economy. Morales honored Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, a construction worker killed by an ICE agent, calling for meaningful legislation to protect immigrant rights. She encouraged voters to consider candidates' stances on immigration and expressed support for Julio Salinas in his campaign. The event concluded with a call for voter engagement ahead of the upcoming November elections.

Mission Receives Millions to Improve Streets in Various Areas of the City

MISSION, Texas — The city of Mission has received a $2 million investment to enhance its road infrastructure, funds approved by the Texas General Land Office through the Disaster Recovery Reallocation program. Municipal authorities reported that the funding was granted by Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham and will allow for improvements on various streets throughout the city. Officials explained that these resources are the result of coordinated efforts between the city and the state to identify key infrastructure needs, aiming to address roadways that have deteriorated over the years. According to the Mission Public Works Department, the plan prioritizes areas where pavement conditions pose the greatest problems for residents. The news was well received by Mission residents, who believe the investment will help improve mobility and street conditions in their communities. Although the project is still in the planning stage, municipal authorities indicated that the area south of Conway Road will be one of the first to receive improvements. The Mission government stated that it will announce the construction schedule and specific sectors included in the project in the coming months.

South Texas Republican builders warn of voter backlash in November if aggressive ICE tactics continue

Leaders from the South Texas construction industry have warned lawmakers that aggressive ICE tactics could lead to voter backlash in the upcoming November elections. During a meeting organized by the South Texas Builders Association, industry representatives expressed concerns about the impact of mass deportations on labor shortages and construction delays. They emphasized the need for worker protections, including legal work permits for immigrants. Notably, U.S. Reps. Henry Cuellar and Vicente Gonzalez attended the meeting, reaffirming their support for limiting ICE operations. Meanwhile, Republican Rep. Monica De La Cruz, although absent, has previously shown support for legal status for construction workers amidst criticism for her past votes.

Edinburg pastors with pending immigration cases released from ICE custody

Two pastors from Edinburg, Cinthia Sarai Cardona Otero and Nepthali Zozaya Saucedo, have been released from ICE custody after being detained at McAllen airport on July 23. The couple, sponsored by their church under a religious visa nine years ago, overstayed their visas that expired in July 2022. A DHS spokesperson confirmed their arrests and stated they will be monitored under Alternatives to Detention, requiring them to report to the Harlingen Field Office in six months. Local Rep. Henry Cuellar has called for ICE to prioritize criminals over detaining religious leaders, expressing concern over the couple's detention.

'They are profiling them': Valley builders losing workers due to ICE fears

PHARR, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Builders from across the Valley and Texas rallied in Pharr on Wednesday, calling for an end to immigration enforcement at construction sites. Builders say the fear of raids is driving away workers, delaying projects and driving up the cost of new homes. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement actions have increased in

McAllen nun Sister Letty faces deportation following Harlingen ICE check-in

Abbott Reappoints Ten Judges To Texas Business Court

Governor Greg Abbott has reappointed all ten judges of the Texas Business Court Divisions for new two-year terms starting September 1, 2026. Abbott emphasized the court's role in resolving complex commercial disputes efficiently, which has bolstered Texas' reputation as a leading business state. The judges, who have extensive legal backgrounds, are expected to continue enhancing the court's effectiveness. Since its establishment, the Texas Business Court has successfully handled numerous cases, providing businesses with the certainty needed for investment and growth. This move underscores Abbott's commitment to maintaining a favorable legal environment for Texas businesses.

Texas AG Investigates Online Puppy Seller over Misleading Health Claims

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into Lone Star Pups, LLC, based in Caldwell, Texas, for allegedly misleading consumers regarding the health and origin of the puppies it sells. The company claims to work with reputable breeders, yet records show that veterinary exams are conducted in Ohio, a state known for questionable breeding practices. Additionally, Lone Star Pups asserts that 99% of its breeding dogs are OFA certified, but an undercover probe revealed they only complete two of the required tests. The investigation will also scrutinize their '10 Year Health Guarantee,' which has significant limitations.

Congressman Henry Cuellar Meets with Sister Letty in McAllen

Sister Leticia 'Letty' Ugboaja remains free as her immigration process continues, following a follow-up appointment with immigration authorities nearly a month after she was detained by ICE agents while on her way to Mass. After the review, her attorney reported that the meeting was merely a routine procedure and confirmed that the nun can remain free under the same conditions established after her release. The legal team is also evaluating all available options as the case progresses. As part of the attention this case has generated in the community, Congressman Henry Cuellar will hold a meeting with Sister Letty this Wednesday at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in McAllen. After the meeting, the legislator will be available for media between 4:00 and 4:20 PM, where he is expected to discuss the details of the meeting and the nun's immigration situation. Sister Letty's detention by ICE agents sparked a widespread reaction among religious leaders, community organizations, and elected officials, who have closely followed the development of her case. Meanwhile, the nun continues her service work in the community while awaiting the next steps in her immigration process.

Rep. Gonzalez Calls Out Aggressive ICE Raids in South Texas

Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) has expressed concern over aggressive ICE raids in South Texas, which are creating fear and contributing to a labor shortage. He emphasized the need for humane immigration enforcement, stating that while he supports strong border security, the current tactics have harmed innocent individuals, including American citizens. Gonzalez is collaborating with local leaders, such as Port Isabel Mayor Martin Cantu, Jr., to advocate for sensible solutions that ensure safety and restore the workforce. He encourages those wrongfully detained by ICE to reach out to his office for assistance.

Witness in ICE Operation Where a Mexican Died in Texas Released

HOUSTON – José Trinidad Rojas Pliego, a key witness in the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation related to the death of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, was released on July 29, just hours before a federal judge's deadline for his release. The decision was made by a federal judge who determined that the government did not justify keeping Rojas Pliego in immigration custody without an individual assessment of whether he posed a flight risk or danger to the community. According to Telemundo Houston, Rojas Pliego was released around noon at an undisclosed location. His attorneys stated that after regaining his freedom, he returned to the site of the operation where Lorenzo Salgado Araujo was killed. Rojas Pliego had been in ICE custody for three weeks since the July 7 operation, when federal agents intercepted the vehicle he was traveling in with Lorenzo Salgado Araujo and others on their way to work. During that incident, agents fired at the vehicle, resulting in the death of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo. The court order mandated that federal authorities release him within 48 hours, return his personal belongings, notify his attorneys in advance about the time and place of his release, and release him in a public location. After his release, Rojas Pliego's attorneys reported that the government filed a request related to the habeas corpus petition that led to the court order. The defense indicated they would respond in court and noted that federal authorities did not provide prior notification of the release, as required by the ruling. The order was issued after Rojas Pliego's defense filed a habeas corpus petition, a legal mechanism to challenge the legality of his detention. According to his federal attorney, the judge considered that Rojas Pliego has lived in the United States since 1998, has no criminal record, and has a wife and children who are U.S. citizens. The other two witnesses in the case remain in ICE custody, and their legal proceedings are still pending. Attorneys believe Rojas Pliego's release could set an important precedent for those cases. A press conference is expected from his legal representatives on Wednesday.

'Inhumane tactics': Congressman Vicente Gonzalez releases statement on Valley ICE raids

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Congressman Vicente Gonzalez on Tuesday released a statement regarding recent raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the Rio Grande Valley, vowing to work with local leaders to find solutions that will keep people safe. The statement comes after ValleyCentral reported that residents in Port Isabel are changing their work and

'It’s kinda ridiculous': Progreso residents push back on new $8.99 monthly brush fee

PROGRESO, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A new monthly brush collection fee is sparking debate among residents in Progreso, with some questioning why they have to pay for a service they may not use every month, while city leaders say the charge is needed to keep the program running without raising property taxes. Starting next month, residents

Years of scandals havent stopped Ken Paxton. Can James Talarico change that?

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who has faced numerous scandals and legal challenges, continues to hold his position despite criticism. His latest opponent, Democratic Rep. James Talarico, is campaigning to unseat him in a closely watched Senate race. Talarico aims to highlight Paxton's alleged corruption, particularly regarding a recent child abuse case handled by his office. While Paxton has maintained strong support among Republican voters, Talarico's fundraising advantage of $21.5 million compared to Paxton's $7.5 million could amplify his message. The election will test whether Talarico can overcome the entrenched support Paxton enjoys in Texas.

Proposed border wall construction threatens retirement home of Brownsville-area couple

Ray Purifoy and Guadalupe Rodriguez, a couple living near Brownsville, face the possibility of losing their retirement home due to a proposed border wall along the Rio Grande. The couple, who built their home to enjoy views of Mexico, received a letter from U.S. Customs and Border Protection outlining plans to construct a barrier that would cut through their property. They were offered $5,000 for the land but are unwilling to accept any of the options presented, including eminent domain. Purifoy, a retired Navy pilot, stated they will resist giving up their land without a court decision.

Dan Patrick directs Texas Senate to study ways to further ingrain religion into public life

Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has directed state lawmakers to explore ways to integrate religion more deeply into public life. Among the interim charges, senators are tasked with comparing state and federal laws on religious liberty, assessing the need for additional protections, and educating Texans about their rights to practice religion in various settings such as education and healthcare. Additionally, lawmakers will review a 2025 law that allows public schools to excuse absences for religious instruction. These directives are part of Patrick's broader agenda, which includes addressing issues like online ticket sales and child custody proceedings.

Catholic nun avoids detention but still faces deportation

A Catholic nun from Nigeria who had been arrested and briefly detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials in June while walking to church in McAllen, met with ICE on Tuesday and was allowed to remain free.

City of Pharr Named First Recipient of the Balanoff Good Government Award

The City of Pharr has been awarded the inaugural Balanoff Good Government Award, recognizing its commitment to exceptional governance. This honor was presented during the CENTEX ASPA Public Service Recognition Awards Luncheon on July 18, 2026, in San Marcos, Texas. Hilda Pedraza, the Assistant City Manager, accepted the award on behalf of Pharr. The award is given to Texas municipalities that exemplify integrity, innovation, and accountability in public service. Pharr was one of only two cities selected for this recognition, reflecting its dedication to ethical leadership and effective governance, as highlighted by City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores.

ICE Plans to Keep Camp East Montana Detention Center Open for Another Year

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plans to keep the Camp East Montana detention facility open for at least another year, extending its contract with Amentum Services Inc. until September 30, 2027. This decision comes despite calls for closure due to alleged human rights abuses. The extension could cost taxpayers an additional $776 million, adding to an initial $452 million contract awarded in March. Reports from Human Rights Watch and the ACLU highlight systemic mistreatment of detainees, including physical abuse and inadequate medical care. The facility currently houses over 2,000 detainees, although numbers have decreased recently.