Politics
Politics news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
Politics'We need to do our due diligence': Harlingen approves 120-day data center moratorium
HARLINGEN, TEXAS (ValleyCentral) – During a Wednesday meeting, city leaders in Harlingen voted in favor of a 120-day moratorium on data centers to better understand the impact the facilities could bring. The temporary pause is intended to evaluate land-use compatibility in light of the infrastructure demands posed by data centers. "I want to be clear
PoliticsYenniffer England Released from Immigration Center in Raymondville
Yenniffer England, a DACA recipient, had been detained at the El Valle detention center in Raymondville. However, activists from the organization LUPE, to which England belongs, confirmed her release on Thursday after nearly three months of confinement. England had been in immigration custody following a routine traffic stop. In a statement, the activists noted that 'this victory was made possible by the resilience of her family and the ongoing organizing efforts of our community.' Additionally, activists reiterated their call to Congress to pass permanent protections and a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients and immigrants with temporary permits.
PoliticsEdinburg mayor: Contractors will be held accountable for water line break that triggered boil water notice
A boil water notice was issued in Edinburg after a contractor broke a main water line on Tuesday, affecting residents and businesses in a specified area. The notice, which was sent out late Tuesday night, was lifted by Wednesday evening. Edinburg Mayor Omar Ochoa stated that the city has completed repairs and restored normal water service. He emphasized that contractors will be held accountable for the incident, mentioning potential fees and fines for the disruption. Residents were advised to boil tap water before use as a precaution during the notice period.
PoliticsEdinburg mayor: Contractors will be held responsible for water line break that triggered boil water notice
A boil water notice was issued in Edinburg after a contractor accidentally broke a main water line near Allen Drive on Tuesday. The notice affected residents and businesses within specific boundaries but was lifted by Wednesday evening. City crews quickly repaired the line and restored normal water service. Mayor Omar Ochoa expressed regret over the incident and stated that contractors will be held accountable for the disruption, including potential fees and fines. Residents are advised to boil water for at least two minutes before use or opt for bottled water if boiling is not possible.
PoliticsEdinburg mayor says contractors will be held accountable for waterline breaks
EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Some Edinburg residents were put under a boil water notice late Tuesday night after a contractor broke a main waterline while installing a cinder block fence near Allen Drive. It was Edinburg's second boil-water advisory issued within a week, and both were caused by contractors breaking main lines. Edinburg Mayor Omar
PoliticsRio Grande City and Starr County are both working on fixes for Embassy Street
Residents of Las Lomas in Rio Grande City report that recent severe weather has left Embassy Street severely damaged, resembling a river with numerous potholes. North Embassy Street, particularly near Hinojosa Street, is difficult for drivers due to these conditions. County Commissioner Hernan Garza has engaged an engineer to plan repaving for this area, with plans expected by the end of May. Meanwhile, Rio Grande City Manager Gilberto Millan stated that the city will begin repairs on its section of the road in the coming months. Both the city and county are also developing a master drainage plan to address ongoing flooding issues.
PoliticsSan Benito, Harlingen and Brownsville seek input on five-year HUD plan
Residents of San Benito, Harlingen, and Brownsville are invited to contribute to a five-year consolidated plan aimed at securing federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). City officials emphasize the importance of community input in prioritizing projects, particularly in affordable housing, street improvements, and park enhancements. San Benito Assistant City Manager Diana Garza highlighted that while the cities are collaborating on gathering feedback, each will develop its own plan based on local responses. Community meetings and an online survey will facilitate this input, with the first meeting scheduled for May 20 at the San Benito Cultural Heritage Center.
PoliticsCameron County elections office flags party switching during primary elections as a felony offense
The Cameron County Elections Department has issued a warning to voters about party switching during the upcoming runoff elections. According to Elections Administrator Remi Garza, voters who participated in a party's primary in March cannot vote in a different party's runoff. Those who did not vote in the primary are free to choose any party in the runoff. Garza emphasized that attempting to vote in the opposing party's runoff is a felony, punishable by prison time and fines up to $10,000. Early voting is available at 20 locations until May 22, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Politics'Time for change' or 'Look at the records'? Cameron County Judge Democrats' race heats up
BROWNSVILLE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Democratic runoff race for Cameron County Judge is intensifying as incumbent Eddie Trevino Jr. faces challenger Steve Guerra ahead of the May 26 election. Both candidates say they will support the Democratic nominee in November, but their visions for Cameron County differ sharply on issues including data centers, SpaceX, environmental
PoliticsJudge orders deportation of Valley DACA recipient in immigration custody
A judge has denied bond for Yenniffer England, a DACA recipient from the Rio Grande Valley, and ordered her deportation during a hearing on Tuesday. England is currently detained in Raymondville after being stopped for speeding in Donna in February, where authorities found her license suspended and no proof of insurance. Her attorney plans to appeal the decision. England, a registered nurse’s assistant, had moved to New York in 2020 but returned to the Valley in December 2025. A protest for her release was held outside the detention center by La Union del Pueblo Entero, which expressed sadness over the deportation order.
PoliticsHundreds turn out for early voting in Cameron County for primary runoff elections
Early voting for the primary runoff elections has started in Cameron County, attracting hundreds of voters on the first day. Unofficial figures from the Cameron County Elections Office indicate that over 2,900 Democrats and nearly 600 Republicans participated. The Brownsville Public Library was the most popular early voting location, with around 850 Democratic and over 120 Republican voters. Elections Administrator Remi Garza noted a trend of increasing early voting, with approximately 50-55% of total turnout now occurring before Election Day. Hidalgo County also reported 2,096 Democratic and 1,250 Republican voters on the same day. Early voting runs through Friday, ahead of the May 26 election.
PoliticsTrump Endorses Ken Paxton Against Senator John Cornyn for Senate in Texas
Former President Donald Trump has endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton for the U.S. Senate, challenging incumbent Senator John Cornyn ahead of the Republican primary runoff. Trump announced his support on Truth Social, stating he would reveal his endorsement on Tuesday. He emphasized the need for a decisive outcome in the divisive race, urging the losing candidate to withdraw immediately. This Senate contest is crucial as Republicans aim to maintain control of Congress. Democratic candidate James Talarico criticized both candidates, highlighting the influence of wealthy donors in politics. Paxton expressed gratitude for Trump's support and pledged to promote his 'America First' agenda.
PoliticsOver 3,000 Votes on the First Day of Early Voting in Hidalgo County
On the first day of early voting in Hidalgo County, which began on May 18, election officials reported a preliminary count of 3,346 votes for the upcoming Joint Primary Election set for May 26. The Hidalgo County Elections Department encourages residents to take advantage of the early voting period before Election Day. Voters can check the schedules and locations for early voting in the county to ensure their participation in the electoral process.
PoliticsNew Protest in Raymondville Demands Release of Woman with DACA
A protest in Raymondville, organized by La Unión del Pueblo Entero (LUPE), is calling for the release of Yenniffer England, a DACA recipient detained by immigration authorities since February 2026. The demonstration coincides with a virtual immigration hearing for England's case, taking place from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at 1800 Industrial Drive, in front of the detention center. Supporters held signs advocating for immigration justice and the release of Yenniffer, while red flags were displayed along the street as a symbol of solidarity.
PoliticsCameron County primary runoff elections could see more voters than usual this year
Early voting for the primary runoff elections in Cameron County is currently taking place, with residents like Lorena Govea emphasizing the importance of participation. Govea, who voted in the March primaries, prefers early voting to avoid long lines and believes that Brownsville voters significantly impact the county's outcomes. Cameron County Elections Administrator Remi Garza noted that while turnout for runoff elections is typically lower, this year could see an increase to 50-60% due to heightened interest in certain races. Early voting continues until May 22, with Election Day set for May 26.
PoliticsResidents shocked border wall planned for wildlife preserve with 'best birding spots'
Members of a small church stayed after Sunday Mass to hear environmentalists and political activists explain how new federal border wall is slated to cut through their remote South Texas town and a popular birding center — something they were unaware was happening.
PoliticsMore than 6,000 ballots cast across the Valley: Early voting primary runoffs, Day 1
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Unofficial election results for day one of the early voting primary runoff election show that more than 6,000 people cast their vote in the upper and lower Rio Grande Valley. Hidalgo County and Cameron County released unofficial numbers on Monday evening for early voting turnout. In Hidalgo County, 3,346 people cast
PoliticsEarly voting underway for the 107th District Court race in Cameron County
Early voting has begun for the Democratic primary runoff in the 107th District Court race in Cameron County. The seat became available after Judge Ben Euresti announced his retirement. Candidates Jesus Garcia and Noe Garza are vying for the position, each presenting distinct qualifications. Garcia, with nearly a decade as a justice of the peace and 20 years as an attorney, emphasizes judicial temperament and his experience from previous campaigns. In contrast, Garza brings nearly 40 years of legal practice in Cameron County, focusing on integrity and fairness. The winner will face Republican Frank Lozano in November 2026.
PoliticsLaredo Leaders Challenge Groundwater Decisions Over Future Water Supply
Laredo Mayor Dr. Victor D. Treviño and regional leaders are addressing concerns about water equity linked to recent groundwater allocation decisions that may impact Laredo and Webb County's growth. On May 15, city officials announced plans to legally challenge these decisions while seeking additional water sources for the future. They emphasize the importance of fair access to water resources for regional development. A public awareness campaign will also be launched to encourage community involvement. The city is committed to safeguarding its long-term water future and ensuring equitable growth opportunities for the region.