Politics
Politics news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
PoliticsBeyond the Labels: Working Together on Border Security
Joe Neeb, City Manager of Laredo, emphasizes the importance of nuanced discussions about border security, arguing against broad labels applied to federal agencies like DHS and CBP. He highlights his collaborative experiences with federal officials on complex issues such as trade and public safety, advocating for a balanced approach that respects both security needs and the dignity of migrants. Neeb stresses that Laredo is more than a border town; it is a vibrant community shaped by immigration and trade. He calls for continued engagement and dialogue to address challenges while recognizing the humanity involved in these issues.
PoliticsInside Valley Politics: Complete breakdown of runoff elections, Rep. Vicente Gonzalez interview
RIO GRANDE VALLEY, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The matchups are set for the November general election. On May 26, Valley voters went to the polls to settle the runoff contests after the March primaries. In the race for Cameron County Judge, Steve Guerra defeated longtime incumbent Eddie Trevino, Jr. The margin of victory came as somewhat
Politics'No bond will be issued at this time': Judge set no bond to wanted Minneapolis ICE agent
OLMITO, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A wanted federal immigration officer who allegedly shot a Venezuelan man in Minneapolis appeared for a bond hearing on Saturday morning. Christian J. Castro went in front of a judge, where he was formally charged with falsely reporting a crime, a misdemeanor, and four counts of assault dangerous weapon, a second-degree felony.
PoliticsHidalgo County district attorney weighs in on impact of Senate Bill 4
Hidalgo County District Attorney Terry Palacios has voiced concerns regarding Senate Bill 4, which permits state and local law enforcement to arrest individuals suspected of illegally crossing the border. Palacios highlighted the potential financial burden on local taxpayers for housing undocumented immigrants, noting that the Hidalgo County Jail is already over capacity by 550 inmates. He mentioned that if 50 individuals cross weekly, additional beds will be necessary. While acknowledging the law's implications, Palacios affirmed his commitment to enforcing it and expediting cases to minimize costs to taxpayers.
PoliticsICE Agent Wanted for Shooting Venezuelan Immigrant at Minnesota Protests Arrested
A federal immigration agent wanted for shooting a Venezuelan man during the anti-immigration crackdown in Minnesota was arrested on Friday in Texas, authorities reported. Christian Castro, from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), was detained 11 days after Minneapolis prosecutors charged him with assault and making a false report regarding the incident in which Venezuelan Julio César Sosa-Celis was injured on January 14. Hennepin County prosecutors in Minnesota noted that the state's Criminal Apprehension Office located Castro, 52, in Texas and worked with agents from the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General and the Texas Rangers to arrest him. 'Today's arrest is a crucial step forward in our prosecution of Mr. Castro,' said Mary Moriarty, Hennepin County Attorney. Online court records do not mention an attorney for Castro, and it was unclear if he has one. Messages were left seeking comments from ICE, the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General, and the Texas Rangers. Castro is the second federal agent charged for his conduct during the crackdown in Minnesota. He is one of two agents who, according to ICE Director Todd Lyons, lied about the circumstances of the incident.
PoliticsBryan Martinez Says Water Planning Critical as Unprecedented Growth Reaches Brownsville
Brownsville City Commissioner Bryan Martinez highlighted the urgent need for regional collaboration and long-term water planning at the RGV Connect Water Forum. With unprecedented industrial growth in Brownsville, he stressed that municipalities must diversify their water sources to meet increasing demands. Martinez emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships and collective efforts among cities to address water security challenges. He pointed out that the City of Brownsville has implemented measures to conserve water, including stricter regulations for car washes and enhanced recycling standards. Education on water conservation is also crucial, as small changes in behavior can significantly impact overall consumption.
PoliticsKen Paxton receives majority of votes in all Valley counties during Republican Senate runoff
Ken Paxton secured a majority of votes in all four counties of the Rio Grande Valley during the Republican Senate runoff against incumbent John Cornyn. In Hidalgo County, Paxton led by 3,000 votes, while in Cameron County, he garnered over 63% of the total votes. Analysts from South Texas College attribute this shift to President Trump's recent endorsement of Paxton. He will face Democrat James Talarico in the upcoming November election. If victorious, Paxton will serve as a junior senator, lacking the ability to chair Senate committees. Cornyn acknowledged the voters' choice and pledged support for the Republican nominee.
PoliticsIllegal reentry into US lands convicted felon in federal prison for 6 years
Leonardo Cordona-Hernandez, a 33-year-old Mexican national, has been sentenced to six years in federal prison for illegally reentering the United States. He pleaded guilty on December 9, 2025, after being found in Houston without authorization. Cordona-Hernandez has a criminal history that includes felony convictions for robbery, drug trafficking, and firearm possession. He was first removed from the U.S. in October 2011 and has returned illegally multiple times. Following his prison term, he is expected to face deportation proceedings. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Hostetter as part of Operation Take Back America.
PoliticsTexas prisoners face new book ban after hundreds test positive for synthetic drugs
Texas has implemented a new policy banning prison inmates from receiving hardback and used books to combat contraband, following the discovery of 385 books containing synthetic drugs last year. Critics argue this measure limits access to vital information for inmates, as many educational resources are now filtered through the Windham School District. Advocates for prisoners claim the policy unfairly punishes inmates for issues related to staff misconduct and reduces the number of books reaching them. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice maintains that the ban is necessary for safety, despite concerns over its impact on rehabilitation and access to literature.
PoliticsSouth Texas and Statewide Republican Runoffs Set November Matchups
In recent Republican runoff elections across Texas, significant outcomes were recorded, particularly in South Texas. Ken Paxton triumphed over incumbent U.S. Senator John Cornyn for the U.S. Senate nomination, garnering 827,373 votes (64.03%). In the attorney general race, State Senator Mayes Middleton defeated U.S. Representative Chip Roy with 701,789 votes (55.39%). In House District 41, Julio Salinas emerged as the Democratic nominee, while Gary Groves won the Republican nomination. Additionally, Esteban Guerra beat incumbent County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr. in Cameron County. These results set the stage for the November elections.
PoliticsLUPE to Host Immigration Roundtable with Senator Alex Padilla
The LUPE organization will hold a community roundtable on immigration with federal Senator Alex Padilla (D-California), where community members and representatives from immigrant advocacy organizations will discuss the impact of current immigration enforcement measures in the Rio Grande Valley. The private meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 28, and will include participation from groups such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Texas Civil Rights Project, and Del Camino Jesuit Border Ministries. According to LUPE, the main goal is to hear firsthand testimonies from residents of South Texas neighborhoods who claim to have been affected by stricter immigration policies and enforcement operations at the border. During the meeting, community leaders will also address the needs faced by many immigrant families in the region, as well as the social and economic consequences stemming from current policies. Senator Alex Padilla, who leads the Immigration Subcommittee of the Senate Judiciary Committee for the Democrats, has advocated for immigration reform proposals that include a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients and long-term residents in the United States. After the roundtable, Padilla and representatives from the participating organizations will hold a press conference to share conclusions, reflections, and potential future actions related to the immigration situation at the southern Texas border.
PoliticsHidalgo County to Honor Former County Judge Ramon Garcia with Law Library Naming Ceremony, May 29th
Hidalgo County will honor former County Judge Ramon Garcia by naming the law library at the Hidalgo County Courthouse after him. The ceremony is scheduled for May 29, 2026, at 1 p.m. in the Jury Assembly Room. Judge Garcia served three terms from 2003 to 2007 and again from 2011 to 2019, earning recognition for his leadership and commitment to public service. He was instrumental in improving the county's financial standing and overseeing major infrastructure projects, including a $100 million bond for flood improvements. The naming serves to commemorate his legacy in the legal community and public service.
PoliticsTexas Joins “A Home For Every Child” Initiative To Strengthen Foster Care
Texas has officially joined the Trump Administration's "A Home for Every Child" initiative, aiming to enhance the foster care system. Governor Greg Abbott, along with DFPS Commissioner Audrey O’Neill and ACF Assistant Secretary Alex J. Adams, made the announcement during National Foster Care Month. The initiative seeks to ensure every child in foster care has access to a stable and loving home, addressing the national shortage of licensed foster homes. Texas plans to improve recruitment of foster families, increase kinship placements, and streamline the licensing process to better serve children in need. More information on fostering can be found at www.dfps.texas.gov.
PoliticsMichael Fallek Sworn In as McAllen District 5 Commissioner
Michael Fallek was sworn in as the new McAllen City Commissioner for District 5 on May 26, 2026, in a ceremony led by Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane. Judge Crane highlighted the Fallek family's significant contributions to the McAllen community over generations, emphasizing their entrepreneurial spirit and charitable efforts. After taking the oath, Fallek expressed his gratitude to his family and supporters, acknowledging the responsibilities of his new role. He outlined his priorities, including public safety, parks, infrastructure, and enhancing the quality of life for McAllen residents, committing to serve the community diligently.
PoliticsCurrent Cameron County Judge Concedes Defeat and Wishes Success to Opponent
Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr. acknowledged his defeat in the Democratic runoff election, congratulating his opponent, Steve Guerra, who will represent the Democrats in November. In a heartfelt message, Treviño expressed gratitude to his family, friends, volunteers, and supporters for their efforts during his campaign. He emphasized pride in the positive and respectful campaign he ran, stating that serving Cameron County was a significant honor. Treviño called for unity and dignity moving forward, wishing success to Guerra and highlighting that progress benefits all families in the county.
PoliticsIncumbent Cameron County judge loses Democratic nomination to Steve Guerra, unofficial results show
In the recent Democratic primary runoff, incumbent Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr. lost to Esteban 'Steve' Guerra, who garnered over 55% of the votes, translating to approximately 10,000 ballots. Treviño received about 44%. Guerra, a former chairman of the Port of Brownsville, expressed his desire for change in the county and emphasized the importance of unity within the party for the upcoming November election. Treviño acknowledged the outcome, stating he ran a positive campaign while suggesting his opponent resorted to negative tactics. Official results will be confirmed after canvassing the votes, leading to the general election against Republican Mauro Garza.
PoliticsVote 2026: Election results for joint primary runoff elections
In the recent Texas primary runoff elections, Ken Paxton led the GOP Senate race with 64.03% of votes, defeating John Cornyn. For Attorney General, Mayes Middleton received 55.39%, winning against Chip Roy. In the Democratic runoff, Nathan Johnson secured 59.6% for Attorney General over Joe Jaworski. The Criminal Appeals Court GOP runoff saw Thomas Smith with 58.24% against Alison Fox. Vikki Goodwin won the Democratic Lieutenant Governor race with 67.92%. In Cameron County, Esteban Guerra led the County Judge race with 55.2%, while Noe Garza won the District Judge race with 58.46%.
PoliticsJoseph L. Lucio wins Dem nomination in Cameron County Precinct 2 race, unofficial results show
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Joseph L. Lucio won the Democratic nomination for the Cameron County Commissioner Precinct 2 race, according to unofficial election results. Lucio received 3,469 votes, or 50.30% of the vote, while incumbent Joey Lopez received 3,427 votes, or 49.70% of the vote. Joseph L. Lucio, nephew of former State Senator Eddie Lucio
PoliticsEsteban Guerra unseats Eddie Trevino Jr. for Dem. county judge nomination
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Esteban "Steve" Guerra has won the Democratic nomination in the May runoff election for Cameron County Judge, according to unofficial election results. According to unofficial results with 100% of precincts reporting, Guerra won with 55% or 10,010 votes. Incumbent Eddie Trevino Jr. was unseated, only garnering 44% or 8,124 votes. Eddie