Politics
Politics news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
PoliticsHarlingen Commissioner Frank Morales Calls Desalination a Necessity
Harlingen City Commissioner Frank Morales attended a press conference in McAllen regarding the proposed RGV Desal marine desalination project. He emphasized the necessity of desalination for the Rio Grande Valley's water supply, particularly in light of ongoing drought conditions in South Texas. Morales believes proactive planning is essential to avoid future water shortages and highlighted the importance of collaboration among municipalities in Cameron, Willacy, and Hidalgo counties. He expressed that while he supports the project, he was sharing his personal views and not representing the Harlingen City Commission. Morales also noted the existing technology can be adapted for local needs.
Politics'Metering' could resume at border after Supreme Court ruling, groups warn
Migrant advocacy groups condemned the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling Thursday to uphold a previous government immigration policy that had turned back asylum-seekers at U.S. ports of entry before they enter U.S. soil.
PoliticsLevee hike and bike trail at Santa Ana refuge closed for border wall construction
Construction of a border wall at the Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge, located south of Alamo, will begin in July 2026, leading to the closure of the levee hike and bike trail for the summer. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced that the project will conclude in September 2027. Additionally, a buoy will be installed in the Rio Grande south of the park next week, with completion expected by March 2024. Local residents express mixed feelings; while some appreciate the refuge's natural beauty, others worry about the impact of construction on wildlife and advocate for a balance between security and environmental preservation.
PoliticsTexas Formally Applies for $10 Billion Border Reimbursement
Texas has officially applied for reimbursement from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for over $10 billion spent on border security since the launch of Operation Lone Star in March 2021. Governor Abbott stated that the funds were necessary due to the Biden Administration's policies, which he claims left gaps in border security. The application is part of the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB), which allocates federal funds for state expenses related to border security. Abbott plans to collaborate with Texas congressional representatives and federal agencies to expedite the reimbursement process.
PoliticsPolice Union Accuses Mission of Preventing Them from Speaking at City Meeting
The Texas Municipal Police Association (TMPA) has raised concerns about a recent city meeting in Mission, claiming they were prevented from discussing important issues. TMPA Executive Director Kevin Lawrence attempted to provide necessary information to participate in the public session but was told he could not speak due to the topic being deemed too vague. The association criticized the lack of transparency and unclear communication during the registration process. TMPA aimed to address concerns regarding the Mission Police Department, including allegations of a hostile work environment and leadership issues following the appointment of Police Chief César Torres. The city has not yet responded publicly to these claims.
PoliticsChaos Expected on Highways: Mexican Transporters Announce Blockades During World Cup
The Mexican Alliance of Transporters (Amotac) announced on Tuesday that starting tomorrow, they will carry out 'peaceful' protests on the country's main highways during the 2026 World Cup, citing a 'lack of solutions and concrete results' from authorities regarding the sector's demands. In a statement addressed to Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum and the 'general public,' the organization accused the federal government of having 'forgotten' the 'small transporter' despite the requests made by their representatives. Consequently, they called on their members to initiate road blockades across all 32 federal entities in the country, with mobilizations beginning this Wednesday, when the capital, Mexico City, hosts the national team's final group stage match against the Czech Republic. Among the demands raised, transporters are calling for safety on highways amid the 'worst stage of crime and violence,' adherence to official rates for towing services, and an end to 'persecution' by security forces. They also seek an end to 'extortion' from certain public officials and faster processing of regulatory or bureaucratic procedures.
PoliticsCornyn Uses Senate Leverage to Secure Border Funding for Texas
U.S. Senator John Cornyn from Texas announced that he leveraged his Senate influence to secure the release of over $10 billion in border security funding previously approved by Congress. Frustrated by delays in reimbursement for Texas border security expenses, Cornyn decided to use his vote as a bargaining tool while Congress was discussing President Trump's immigration spending bill. After discussions with Senate Republican leaders, he received confirmation from White House budget director Russ Vought that the funds would be released. Cornyn emphasized the importance of using legislative power to achieve policy goals.
PoliticsMan Sentenced to 100 Years for Shooting at Immigration Center; Others Face Years Behind Bars
A group of eight individuals found guilty of terrorism related to the July 4, 2025 shooting at the ICE Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas, has been sentenced. The organizer, Benjamin Song, who could have received a minimum sentence of 20 years or life in prison, was sentenced to 100 years. Prosecutors stated that Song, a former U.S. Marine reservist, shouted 'Get the rifles!' and opened fire, hitting a police officer who had just arrived at the center. Although Song fired the shots, other protesters were charged with attempted murder of an officer and firearm offenses but were acquitted. The prosecution argued that the group's planning made a shooting foreseeable. Maricela Rueda received a 70-year sentence, while Savanna Batten, Zachary Evetts, Autumn Hill, Meagan Morris, and Elizabeth Soto were sentenced to 600 months (approximately 50 years). Daniel Estrada was convicted of illegally concealing documents and conspiracy to conceal documents, receiving a 30-year sentence. In total, nine defendants were tried, with eight facing charges for providing material support to terrorists, among other offenses. The sentencing hearing took place this Tuesday in a federal court in Fort Worth. The hearing for the ninth defendant was rescheduled for next week, where they could receive a sentence of 10 to 60 years. Federal prosecutors maintain that the group aimed to attack the facilities to disrupt immigration and deportation operations. They will be sentenced for their involvement in riots, obstruction, and attempted murder. An Alvarado police officer was shot but survived. Prosecutors labeled the case as 'domestic terrorism,' describing the violence as a planned attack by Antifa activists; however, the defendants' attorneys rejected this characterization, arguing there were no links to Antifa and that it was merely a protest with fireworks that escalated into gunfire. This decentralized far-left movement has become a target of the Trump administration. Kash Patel, FBI Director, noted that this case marked the first time charges for providing material support to terrorists were brought against individuals accused of being part of Antifa. The terrorism charges followed an order issued by Trump last fall to designate Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization. Such charges did not require proving a link to any specific organization, and there is no national equivalent to the State Department's list of foreign terrorist organizations, partly because organizations operating within the United States are protected by the broad guarantees of the First Amendment. Critics of the case brought by the Department of Justice have pointed out that the outcome could have significant repercussions for protests. ON THE NIGHT OF JULY 4, 2025 The group brought fireworks and caused property damage to vehicles and a guard booth; at least one person was armed. According to the group's attorneys, it was a protest against immigration crackdowns. The defense argued that most protesters began to disperse when two guards from the center came outside, just before the gunfire began. The trial lasted 12 days last March, featuring testimony from over 45 witnesses and hundreds of pieces of evidence, culminating in a guilty verdict from the jury. The proceedings were closely monitored by legal experts and critics, who viewed it as a test of how far the government can go to sanction protesters. The officer who was shot, Alvarado Police Lieutenant Thomas Gross, testified that upon arriving at the scene, he saw a person dressed entirely in black, with a covered face and carrying a rifle. He told the jury that he was shot by a bullet that entered through his shoulder and exited through his neck. Song's attorney, Phillip Hayes, argued to the jury during closing arguments that there was no call to arms before Gross arrived and drew his weapon 'aggressively.' Hayes suggested that Song's shots constituted 'suppressive fire' and that the officer was hit by a ricochet. Before the trial, several individuals pleaded guilty to providing material support to terrorists after being accused of supporting the Antifa movement. They face sentences of up to 15 years in prison at the time of sentencing. Some testified for the prosecution, including Seth Sikes, who claimed he went to the detention center to bring some joy to the people held there. Associated Press reporter Jim Vertuno contributed from Austin, Texas.
PoliticsJudge blocks Biden-era immigration rule hours after Texas AG and Stephen Miller group sued DOJ
A federal judge in Texas has blocked a Biden administration immigration rule that allowed judges to close deportation cases indefinitely. This ruling came just hours after Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Justice. The rule, adopted in 2024, aimed to provide legal pathways for immigrants facing deportation. Paxton's lawsuit argued that the rule effectively granted indefinite amnesty to undocumented immigrants. U.S. Judge Reed O'Connor, known for his conservative rulings, sided with Texas after the DOJ agreed with Paxton's claims. Critics argue this swift decision undermines due process for affected immigrants.
PoliticsJudge blocks use of federal database to check citizenship, saying it could wrongly purge voters
A federal judge has ruled that the revamped Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program, part of the Trump administration's election integrity efforts, is unlawful. U.S. District Court Judge Sparkle L. Sooknanan stated that the program's upgrades could lead to wrongful voter purges by aggregating sensitive personal data. She emphasized that the government violated privacy rights and statutory protections against centralizing personal information. This ruling is a significant setback for Trump’s initiatives to address noncitizen voting. Advocacy groups, including the League of Women Voters, argued that the program endangered valid voters, particularly naturalized citizens, by risking erroneous data use.
PoliticsUS and Mexico Approve Conceptual Plans for World Trade Bridge Expansion in Laredo
U.S. Commissioner Chad McIntosh, U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, and Laredo Mayor Dr. Victor D. Treviño have signed conceptual designs for the expansion of the World Trade Bridge in Laredo. This project, which has received binational approval, aims to widen the existing bridge and construct a new eight-lane structure for northbound commercial traffic. The expansion is crucial for enhancing trade capacity between Laredo and Nuevo Laredo. The City of Laredo, in collaboration with the Texas Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration, is advancing this initiative, which is expected to reduce congestion and boost economic activity in the region.
PoliticsOrlando Campos Sees Strong Momentum for Harlingen and the RGV After Visit to Washington
Orlando Campos, President and CEO of the Harlingen Economic Development Corporation, emphasized the importance of regional collaboration following a recent delegation trip to Washington, D.C. The trip allowed Valley leaders to advocate for shared priorities, including enhancing U.S.-Mexico relations, supporting small businesses, and improving transportation infrastructure. Campos highlighted Harlingen's strategic location and the significance of Valley International Airport for trade. He also addressed water security issues and the region's growing economic potential, citing investments from companies like SpaceX. Campos believes a unified approach is crucial for competing for federal resources and fostering future economic development in the Rio Grande Valley.
PoliticsProtest held at Raymondville detention center in support of detained families
On Saturday, nearly 50 protesters gathered outside the El Valle Detention Center in Raymondville, advocating for the release of undocumented detainees and improved conditions within the facility. Activists and family members expressed their solidarity, with Palmview resident Robert Hoffman emphasizing the importance of supporting those affected, regardless of personal connections. Rosaline Yanet shared her experience visiting her grandmother, Xiomara Companiani Gonzalez, who has been detained since November. Organizers, including Chriselda Vega from the Blue Bunny Brigade, highlighted the struggles of undocumented families and the need for community support, urging others to join the cause.
PoliticsProtesters gathered at Raymondville detention center in support of detained families
On Saturday, nearly 50 protesters gathered outside the El Valle Detention Center in Raymondville, advocating for the release of undocumented detainees and improved conditions within the facility. Activists and family members expressed their support, with Palmview resident Robert Hoffman stating that faith and humanity motivated his presence. Rosaline Yanet shared her experience visiting her detained grandmother, highlighting the emotional toll on families. Organizers from the Blue Bunny Brigade emphasized their commitment to supporting undocumented families and raising awareness about their struggles. The protest aimed to give a voice to those who feel powerless in these circumstances.
PoliticsIVP: Cameron County approves tax abatement, looking back at Texas GOP Convention
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Cameron County Commissioners voted to approve a 95% tax abatement for Saronic Technologies, an AI boat manufacturer eyeing the Port of Brownsville for a new facility. The move came after weeks of debate and public comment from a number of community members opposed to the project. The vote was tabled from
PoliticsTexas Supreme Court rejects attempt to block Boca Chica Beach closures for SpaceX launches
The Texas Supreme Court has ruled against environmental groups attempting to block closures of Boca Chica Beach during SpaceX launches. The unanimous decision stated that these groups lacked the right to sue for public beach access, affirming a lower court's dismissal of their case. The lawsuit originated in 2021 from SaveRGV, which claimed the closures violated a constitutional amendment guaranteeing public beach access. The court clarified that the amendment does not grant private parties the right to sue for enforcement. The ruling allows SpaceX to continue its operations without legal hindrance regarding beach access during launches.
PoliticsGovernor Abbott Taps New Appointees to Serve and Represent Texans
Governor Greg Abbott has appointed several individuals to key positions representing Texans. Lonnie Key, Stephen Luskey, and Jeff Tallas join the Brazos River Authority, with terms expiring in 2031. Brad Benham and Frederick Dodd, II were also appointed for shorter terms. The authority oversees the management of storm and flood waters in the Brazos River Basin. Additionally, April Aguirre and Derek Cohen, Ph.D., were appointed to the State Commission on Judicial Conduct, while Lindsey Bowers joins the State Soil and Water Conservation Board. Other appointments include Emily Groomer to the Texas Early Learning Council and Pete Pape, Ed.D., and Dan West to the Teacher Retirement System Board of Trustees, both serving until 2031.
PoliticsMayor Omar Ochoa Pursues Federal Infrastructure Support During Washington Visit
Edinburg Mayor Omar Ochoa visited Washington, D.C. from June 10-12, 2026, alongside Rio Grande Valley leaders to seek federal funding for infrastructure projects. Ochoa emphasized the need for support in water, drainage, and transportation systems to accommodate Edinburg's rapid growth. He highlighted the importance of modernizing water distribution and expanding storage capacity as regional challenges. The delegation met with federal officials to discuss grant opportunities and workforce development, aiming to strengthen Edinburg’s economic position. Ochoa plans to align local projects with federal funding cycles and pursue competitive grants to enhance the city's infrastructure.
PoliticsSenator Cornyn Weighs In on Committee Passage of Texas Judicial Nominations
The Senate Judiciary Committee has approved the nominations of John George Edward Marck and Arthur Roberts "Rob" Jones as U.S. District Judges for the Southern District of Texas – McAllen Division. Senator John Cornyn praised their qualifications, stating they have strong records in prosecuting serious crimes and ensuring public safety. Both nominees were recommended by Cornyn and Senator Ted Cruz after a thorough review by the bipartisan Federal Judicial Evaluation Committee. Marck has extensive experience in federal prosecution, while Jones has a background in border-related crime and served in the U.S. Air Force's Judge Advocate General’s Corps.