American politician representing Texas's 16th district since 2019
The Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit to acquire about 14 acres of land in Dona Ana County, near Mount Cristo Rey, to install fencing, lighting, and surveillance near the border. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Las Cruces is contesting the seizure, arguing it burdens religious exercise and sacred use of the site, which hosts annual pilgrimages. Compulsory possession would be added to ongoing legal battles over border infrastructure.
The Department of Homeland Security has paused and is reviewing thepurchase of 11 warehouses made under Kristi Noem’s leadership. The department is now moving to utilize existing detention space with state and county partners as it weighs next steps and potential disposal of several facilities.
The East Montana detention camp in El Paso faces renewed scrutiny as ICE extends its operation and a no-bid contract through Sept. 2027, with a potential cost of $776 million in addition to a $452 million initial award. Reports of mistreatment, safety concerns, and detainee deaths are shaping a fierce political debate.