Politics
Politics news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
PoliticsAbbott and FEMA Review Council Chart a New Course
Governor Greg Abbott participated in a meeting of the FEMA Review Council in Austin, where 10 key recommendations were presented to enhance FEMA's role in disaster management. The Council's research emphasizes the need for FEMA to delegate leadership and responsibilities to state and local communities during crises. Abbott stated that these reforms are crucial for Texas, which frequently faces natural disasters. He expressed gratitude to the Trump administration and fellow council members for their efforts and stressed the importance of maintaining open communication in times of emergency. The Council was established by an Executive Order from President Trump in January 2025.
PoliticsMillions of taxpayers could receive IRS refunds for pandemic penalties
Tens of millions of taxpayers may be eligible to receive refunds or reductions of penalties from the IRS for late payment or non-payment fines imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Refunds are not automatic; taxpayers must file a claim before the July 10 deadline, according to the National Taxpayer Advocate, an independent IRS oversight organization. The penalties were imposed on taxpayers who did not pay taxes during a period when a federal disaster declaration was in effect due to the pandemic, from January 20, 2020, to July 10, 2023. A federal court ruled last year that taxpayers were not required to meet certain filing deadlines during that period. In the case of Kwong v. United States, the court determined that, under a provision of the tax code, filing and payment deadlines are automatically postponed while a federal disaster declaration is in effect, plus an additional 60 days. The case is still ongoing.
PoliticsTexas AG Targets Texas ISDs Over Ten Commandments and School Prayer Mandates
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated a statewide investigation into Independent School Districts (ISDs) to ensure compliance with laws requiring the display of the Ten Commandments and the implementation of school prayer. The investigation follows the passage of SB 10 and SB 11, which mandate that schools display the Ten Commandments and hold a board vote on designated prayer times. ISDs under scrutiny include those from McAllen, Dallas, Houston, and others. Paxton emphasizes the importance of religious freedom in schools and aims to uphold these legal requirements, which are set to take effect in September 2025.
PoliticsTrump says the ceasefire remains in effect in Iran, despite recent missile exchanges
President Donald Trump told ABC News that the ceasefire in Iran 'remains in effect,' despite the exchange of attacks with Tehran in the Strait of Hormuz, which has been described as a violation of the agreement by the Islamic Republic. Trump referred to the missile exchange that occurred on Thursday in Hormuz as merely 'a little love tap' when ABC reporter Rachael Scott asked him via phone about the events in the Middle East. 'No, no, the ceasefire continues. It is in effect,' the Republican added during the interview.
PoliticsTrump Administration Seeks Faster Deportations; Targets Judges It Considers Slow
The Department of Justice is looking to streamline immigration judges it believes take too long to issue rulings or do not comply with the law, said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche on Wednesday. At the same time, President Donald Trump's administration aims to reshape immigration courts and reduce some of the 3.7 million backlog cases to facilitate its large-scale deportation agenda. Blanche spoke on Wednesday in Phoenix at the Border Security Expo, an annual gathering that attracts high-ranking immigration officials, local and state law enforcement agencies, and representatives from companies that do business with the federal government. Blanche's presence at the event reflects how immigration and border security have become a priority throughout the Trump administration.
PoliticsFederal Judge Authorizes Expedited Release of Kevin González's Parents
TUCSON - A federal judge has authorized the expedited deportation of Kevin González's parents so they can be with him during his final days in Mexico. Isidoro Gonzalez Aviles and Norma Anabel Ramírez Amaya have been detained for days at the immigration detention center in Florence, Arizona. They crossed the border to reunite with their 18-year-old son, who is suffering from terminal cancer. A reporter from Telemundo Arizona was present at the immigration court in Tucson during the couple's hearing on the morning of May 7. During his appearance, González Aviles cried as he pleaded to be sent to Mexico to be with his son. The judge was moved, stating that he had children and understood their situation, and that he would pray for the family. While it is unclear how and when the couple will be transferred to the Mexico-U.S. border, it was announced that Kevin's parents will return to the detention center in Florence for their belongings. The judge stated that their release now depends on ICE.
PoliticsMarco Rubio Meets with the Pope and Expresses His 'Commitment' to Peace
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio concluded a visit to the Vatican on Thursday aimed at mending relations after tensions arose between President Trump and Pope Leo XIV over the war in Iran. During his meeting with the Pope, Rubio emphasized their shared commitment to promoting peace and human dignity. The meeting was complicated by Trump's recent criticisms of the Pope. Rubio also planned to meet with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who defended the Pope against Trump's attacks. Other topics on Rubio's agenda included Cuba, where he expressed concerns about potential military action from the Trump administration.
PoliticsMotion filed to dismiss federal charges against indicted McAllen city commissioner
Attorneys for McAllen City Commissioner Rodolfo "Rudy" Castillo have filed a motion to dismiss three federal charges against him, which include money laundering and smuggling through his used clothing business, Oro Ropa Usada. His wife, Bertha Castillo, is also implicated in the case. Both were arrested in October 2025 during an ICE operation in South McAllen. The indictment claims they attempted to transport over 174,000 pounds of used clothing and other goods into Mexico without proper documentation. The motion argues that the charges lack a valid offense and do not adequately inform Castillo of the accusations. They have pleaded not guilty and are out on bond, with a prosecutor's response due by May 20.
PoliticsValley state representative calls for DACA recipient release at detention center
State Representative Armando Martinez held a press conference outside the El Valle Detention Center in Raymondville, advocating for the release of Yenniffer England, a DACA recipient and registered nurse’s assistant. England was detained following a traffic stop on February 16 due to a suspended license. Martinez emphasized that minor infractions should not lead to arrest, especially for someone compliant with DACA requirements. He plans to meet with the Texas Department of Public Safety to address these issues. England is currently in ICE custody, with immigration hearings scheduled for May 19.
PoliticsDe La Cruz and Texas Delegation Urge Space Force to Make JBSA-Lackland Its Permanent Home
Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) and the Texas Congressional Delegation have sent a letter to the Department of the Air Force advocating for Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland (JBSA-Lackland) to be designated as the permanent headquarters for the U.S. Space Force component to U.S. Cyber Command (SPACEFOR-CYBER). The lawmakers emphasize San Antonio's strategic advantages, including existing infrastructure and a skilled workforce, which would facilitate immediate operations. The letter is co-signed by several Texas senators and representatives, highlighting the region's role as a cyber hub and its proximity to key military and space installations.
PoliticsGovernor Abbott Unveils 2026 Vision for Texas
Governor Greg Abbott has released the 2026 Report to the People of Texas, detailing the state's achievements in 2025 and setting priorities for the upcoming year. This report, issued during the legislative interim, marks Abbott's sixth since taking office in 2015. It emphasizes Texas' commitment to border security, public safety, education, and individual rights. The report also highlights significant legislation from the recent session and the state's success in attracting business investments and creating jobs. Additionally, it showcases the spirit of community service among Texans, featuring stories of local support and contributions.
PoliticsCongressional Hispanic Leadership Institute to Honor Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz
The Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI) will honor Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) with its Bipartisan Leadership in Public Service Award during its 22nd Annual Gala on May 13 in Washington, D.C. Established in 2003, CHLI focuses on advancing public policy for the U.S. Hispanic community. De La Cruz expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing that it belongs to the people of South Texas and her family. The gala will also honor Gil Cisneros (D-CA) and Daniel Noboa Azín, celebrating the theme 'Mosaic of Voices' in anticipation of the nation's 250th anniversary.
PoliticsNurse's assistant detained by ICE despite being DACA recipient
The wind whipped through the concertina wire and across ICE's heavily secured El Valle Detention facility, where a mother of two with legal DACA status is among migrants being held inside. Yenniffer England, 32, was arrested on Feb. 16 by Texas state troopers while driving her brother and a daughter to get tacos one evening. She has been held for nearly three months and faces a final immigration hearing on Wednesday where a judge could order her deported back to Mexico.
PoliticsDarling and Cortez Detail Valley’s Response to Migrant Arrivals and COVID Challenges
During a luncheon at Koko’s Mexican Restaurant, former McAllen Mayor Jim Darling and Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez discussed the Rio Grande Valley's response to the influx of migrants and challenges posed by COVID-19. Cortez highlighted the dire conditions faced by migrants arriving without basic necessities and praised Sister Norma Pimentel for her dedication in establishing a support facility at Sacred Heart. He noted the complexity added by the pandemic, which required immediate health responses. Both officials emphasized the importance of community collaboration in addressing these humanitarian needs during a time of crisis.
PoliticsTrump Pauses 'Project Freedom' Operation in the Strait of Hormuz; Cites Progress with Iran
A ceasefire in the Middle East was jeopardized on Tuesday after the United States and Iran exchanged gunfire and threats following President Donald Trump's new mission to force the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. However, Trump announced on Tuesday night that the effort to force the opening of the strait—called 'Project Freedom'—would be put on hold. 'At the request of Pakistan and other countries; given the tremendous military success we have had during the campaign against the nation of Iran; and additionally, in light of the significant progress made toward a comprehensive and definitive agreement with Iranian representatives, we have mutually agreed that, while the blockade will remain in full force and effect, Project Freedom (the movement of ships through the Strait of Hormuz) will be paused for a brief period to determine if the agreement can be finalized and signed,' Trump wrote on Truth Social. Trump's 'Project Freedom' aimed to utilize the U.S. military to break the stranglehold Tehran has over this crucial waterway, which has strangled international shipping and driven up energy prices.
PoliticsThe Top House Progressive Says Democrats Need a New Economic Message
Rep. Greg Casar, the progressive caucus chair, is hoping his detailed proposals to lower costs can unite the party and win back the House.
Politics“Help me fulfill my last wish”: Young man with terminal cancer asks to see his parents
Kevin González, an 18-year-old born in Chicago, is facing his final days with one wish: to see his parents, who are currently detained by immigration authorities after attempting to cross the border to be with him. Diagnosed in January with stage 4 colon cancer, the disease has spread throughout his body. According to doctors, there are no treatment options left, and his time is limited. Kevin is currently at his grandmother's house in Durango, Mexico. "I just want to see my parents one last time," said Kevin González. His grandmother, Virginia Maya, describes the deterioration of his health. "He can no longer eat, he doesn't drink anything. Right now, he's only on the medications we brought from the United States," Maya said. For months, his brother has been by his side, caring for him while the family sought a way to reunite. His parents tried to obtain humanitarian visas, but they were denied. "They went to the bridge to plead, to tell them they are not criminals, they just wanted to see their son's health," Maya said. After being denied, they decided to cross the border irregularly. They were detained by immigration authorities and taken to a detention center in Arizona. "Release them, they are not criminals, they just wanted to see their son. Please help us," Maya said. Letters from the University of Chicago Hospital confirm that Kevin is in the terminal phase and request compassion to allow his parents to be released to be with him in his final moments. However, experts warn that the immigration process is typically slow. "It's very difficult because the processes are very slow. So really, if they want to leave voluntarily and sign their voluntary departure, the government can release them. The important thing here is to find out which authority will push this forward to make it happen," said Salvador Cícero, an immigration attorney not connected to the case. Meanwhile, Kevin, a U.S. citizen, faces the possibility of dying far from his parents. "Help me fulfill my last wish, if possible," González said. The Department of Homeland Security has not responded to the case. A hearing for Kevin's parents is scheduled for this Thursday. This article was originally reported for broadcast by Telemundo Chicago. Artificial intelligence tools helped convert it into a digital version, and a journalist from Telemundo Chicago edited the article for publication.
PoliticsCongress Members and Organizations Demand Release of Families Detained at ICE Center
TEXAS – Immigrant advocacy organizations, along with Democratic congress members, will call for the release of families detained at the Immigration Processing Center in Dilley, Texas, this Tuesday. The press conference will be led by U.S. Representative Joaquín Castro, joined by other lawmakers and groups such as Families Belong Together.
PoliticsThe White House Does It Again: Controversial AI Image of Democrats Celebrating Cinco de Mayo
WASHINGTON DC – The White House released a controversial image generated with artificial intelligence (AI) on Tuesday, featuring Democratic leaders in Congress, Hakeem Jeffries and Chuck Schumer, both wearing large sombreros and celebrating the Cinco de Mayo holiday alongside a sign that reads 'I love illegal immigrants.' The response was swift, with Democratic leader Chuck Schumer replying with another image posted on his X account, showing Epstein alongside President Donald Trump in Mexican hats: 'Happy Cinco de Mayo, @WhiteHouse!'