Politics
Politics news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
PoliticsFamily of Mexican man killed in ICE operation in Houston seeks justice
The family of Lorenzo Salgado, a Mexican man shot dead during an ICE operation in Houston, is demanding justice and clarity about the incident. A press conference will be held at the Greater Coalition for Justice on Wednesday, along with vigils organized by pro-immigrant groups. Salgado, who had lived in the U.S. for over 35 years and was in the process of legalizing his status, was shot after ICE agents attempted to arrest undocumented immigrants. The agency claims the shooting was in self-defense. The investigation is now under the U.S. Inspector General's Office, and a reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for videos of the incident.
PoliticsAlton and Hidalgo County team up to fix deteriorating roads
Alton and Hidalgo County are collaborating to repave roads north of Mission that have deteriorated due to heavy traffic. The project focuses on Inspiration Road at Mile 6 Road, where crews are raising manhole covers before repaving. Local resident Jose Villasana noted the road's poor condition has led to issues, including flat tires. Hidalgo County Precinct 3 Commissioner Everardo Villarreal acknowledged that increased traffic has accelerated road wear and expressed challenges in initiating repairs. Currently, crews have adjusted three manhole covers, with plans to adjust two more this week, aiming to complete the project by next week.
PoliticsGov. Abbott orders investigation into Mission Regional over alleged birth tourism packages
Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to investigate Mission Regional Medical Center for allegedly offering 'birth tourism packages' to foreign nationals. The governor's office claims the hospital is targeting these individuals to profit from U.S. citizenship granted to children born in the country. Abbott described birth tourism as an illegal practice that exploits the hospitality of the U.S. and Texas. The hospital's management stated they do not support illegal activities and will cooperate with the investigation. Any violations found will be reported for criminal prosecution and may lead to administrative penalties.
Politics'It's slowing down the entire industry': South Texas builders say ICE operations delaying construction
DONNA, Texas (ValleyCentral) — South Texas builders say increased immigration enforcement across the Rio Grande Valley is creating delays at construction sites, driving up building costs and worsening an ongoing labor shortage. Industry leaders with the South Texas Builders Association say immigration enforcement activity has intensified in recent days, affecting not only construction workers but
PoliticsKen Paxton vowed to crack down on illegal voting. He may have violated Texas election law.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton recently launched a tip line for reporting suspected voter fraud, emphasizing the importance of fair elections. However, records reveal that he may have violated Texas election laws by voting from an address where he no longer resides. Paxton has reportedly continued to register at his former home in Collin County, despite moving to Denton County. Legal experts suggest that this could constitute a violation of the laws he enforces. Paxton's campaign has not responded to inquiries about his residency, while his opponent, James Talarico, has raised concerns about voter security measures.
PoliticsCongressman Gonzalez secures federal funds for Mercedes drainage upgrades
U.S. Representative Vicente Gonzalez has obtained $850,000 in federal funding to enhance the storm sewer system in Mercedes. This funding, part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Community Project Funding, will support the installation of reinforced concrete pipes, manholes, and inlets in key areas such as South Vermont Street and South Washington Street. The project, estimated to cost around $2.08 million, aims to improve stormwater management and reduce flooding risks. City Manager Alberto Perez expressed gratitude for the investment, emphasizing its importance for public safety and community resilience against extreme weather events in the Rio Grande Valley.
PoliticsGina Hinojosa proposes sending every Texas household $1, 500 in her bid to oust Greg Abbott
Gina Hinojosa, the Democratic candidate for Texas Governor, has proposed a plan to send $1,500 to every Texas household if she wins against incumbent Greg Abbott in November. Speaking in Houston, Hinojosa criticized the current government, claiming it burdens citizens rather than helping them. The initiative, estimated to cost $17 billion, would draw from the state's rainy day fund, which currently holds $24.8 billion. Hinojosa aims to address the affordability crisis and believes her proposal could garner bipartisan support among lawmakers. Meanwhile, Abbott focuses on property tax cuts in his campaign, leading Hinojosa by about 6 percentage points in recent polls.
PoliticsState lawmakers to explore banning foreign nationals from using Texas surrogates
Texas lawmakers are considering a ban on foreign nationals using surrogates in the state, a move that could intertwine surrogacy with immigration and citizenship issues. The Texas Senate health committee will hear testimonies on this topic, following an interim charge from Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. The Texas GOP recently endorsed a ban on commercial surrogacy for foreigners, citing concerns over U.S. citizenship for children born through these arrangements. Surrogacy experts warn that targeting foreign contracts may lead to broader restrictions affecting all Texans seeking surrogacy, especially as the state also debates funding for IVF procedures.
PoliticsRep. Gonzalez secures $850K for Mercedes sewer upgrade
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — U.S. Rep. Vicente Gonzalez (D), Texas 34, presented the city of Mercedes on Tuesday morning with $850,000 in federal funding to expand and improve its sewer system. Mercedes City Commissioner, Ruben Saldana, opened the event, stating the city is working to address the flooding issues now rather than panicking when the rain hits.
PoliticsHarlingen City Commission considers public comment conduct rules
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Harlingen City Commission is considering an ordinance to implement conduct rules for the public comment period at meetings, and some citizens have concerns about the implications. At the commission meeting on July 1, commissioners decided to table discussion on the ordinance to give members more time to review the potential rules.
PoliticsGovernor Abbott Orders Investigation into Mission Hospital for Alleged Birth Tourism
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to initiate an immediate investigation into the Mission Regional Medical Center, following reports that the hospital allegedly offers 'birth packages' aimed at foreign nationals. According to Abbott, these services are related to what is known as 'birth tourism,' a practice where individuals travel to the United States to give birth so that their children can obtain U.S. citizenship by birth. As part of the directive, the HHSC must determine whether the hospital has violated state laws or its contractual obligations. If irregularities are found, the agency must refer the case to the Texas Attorney General for possible civil actions and to the appropriate district attorneys for a potential criminal investigation. Additionally, it could impose administrative penalties on the medical center. In a statement, Abbott asserted that Texas 'will not allow the exploitation of its healthcare system or citizenship laws' and emphasized that his administration will continue to take action against birth tourism and any institution that allegedly profits from this practice.
PoliticsAbbott Selects Latest Group of Public Servants for Texas Boards
Governor Greg Abbott has appointed several individuals to key positions in Texas state boards. Robert Uhl has been reappointed to the Jobs and Education for Texans Grant Program Advisory Board until June 19, 2027. Sean Mason will serve as the Director of the Office of State-Federal Relations. Robert Trapp has been reappointed as Presiding Judge of the Second Administrative Judicial Region for a four-year term. Texas Commissioner of Education Mike Morath continues on the Southern Regional Education Board until June 30, 2030. Additionally, Martin Deleon, Jr. joins the State Commission on Judicial Conduct, and Dianne Costa is appointed to the Texas Woman’s University Board of Regents until February 1, 2031.
PoliticsAlamo drainage project nears completion after delays
The drainage project along FM 907 in Alamo is nearing completion after over two years of construction. The new system is already functioning, with no reported flooding during last month's heavy rains. Delays occurred due to issues with water, gas, and AT&T lines, extending the original completion date from May 2026. Alamo Mayor J.R. Garza stated that crews are currently finalizing the project by polishing areas, finishing concrete work, and ensuring the roadways and sidewalks are clean and presentable. Officials anticipate the project will be completed by next week.
PoliticsTxDOT welcomes feedback on 10-year transportation plan
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Texas Department of Transportation is inviting all Texans to provide feedback on its draft 10-year plan that is said to shape the future of Texas roadways. The plan, also known as the Unified Transportation Program (UTP), outlines project development focused on improving safety and connectivity. A draft of the 2027
PoliticsFederal Prosecutors Add more than 250 Border Enforcement Cases in Southern District of Texas
Federal prosecutors in the Southern District of Texas have charged 259 individuals with immigration and border security-related crimes between June 26 and July 3. This includes 188 complaints for felony reentry after prior removal and 40 charges for illegal entry. Many of the accused have previous convictions for narcotics, violent crimes, and immigration offenses. Additionally, 26 individuals are linked to human smuggling activities. These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, which aims to enhance public safety and secure the border. The Southern District covers 43 counties and is one of the busiest in the nation.
PoliticsShape Texas Roads: Public Input Needed for 10-Year Transportation Plan
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is seeking public input for its 10-year transportation plan, which includes over $95 billion for projects statewide. The plan aims to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and improve connectivity while also supporting public transportation and other modes. Feedback is crucial for prioritizing investments as Texas faces rapid growth. The comment period is open until August 3, and a virtual public hearing is scheduled for July 29 at 2 p.m. Participants can submit comments online in multiple languages, including Spanish. The Texas Transportation Commission will vote on the plan in August.
PoliticsMayor Treviño Seeks Second Term After Campaign Focused on Growth and Public Service
Laredo Mayor Dr. Víctor D. Treviño announced his reelection campaign on July 3, 2026, emphasizing his commitment to infrastructure, public safety, healthcare, and economic development. Treviño, who has served the community for nearly 40 years, highlighted achievements from his first term, including $119 million invested in water infrastructure and progress on a pediatric hospital. He maintains a $1.10 billion budget while ensuring no property tax increase for over 20 years. Treviño aims to expand healthcare access and improve public safety through new technologies. He welcomes competition in the upcoming municipal elections, believing it strengthens democracy.
PoliticsSouth Texas congressman trying to get border wall exemptions reinstated
U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas, says he's working with Republicans on the House Appropriations Committee for exceptions to be put in the 2027 Homeland Security budget bill to exempt certain landmarks in the Rio Grande Valley from border wall construction.
PoliticsGovernor Abbott Appoints Don Huffines As Comptroller Of Public Accounts
Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Don Huffines as Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. Abbott praised Huffines for his business acumen and conservative values, noting his commitment to taxpayers. A fifth-generation Texan and co-founder of a major real estate firm, Huffines previously served in the Texas Senate from 2015 to 2019, where he was known for his fiscal conservatism. He expressed gratitude for the appointment, promising to manage government efficiently and protect taxpayer dollars. As Comptroller, he will oversee tax collection, state fund disbursement, and ensure transparency in state spending, starting August 1.