A collection of Texas judges have penned a letter to Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin urging transparency and local partnership.
We, the undersigned County Judges, representing 100% of the contiguous Texas-Mexico border, write with respect and goodwill, and a sincere desire to serve as partners in securing our shared border.
In our roles as the chief elected officials of our counties, we also serve as the heads of emergency management pursuant to Chapter 418, Section 418.1015 of the Texas Government Code. This responsibility places us at the front line of public safety, infrastructure coordination, and emergency response across both rural and urban communities along the border.
We recognize the progress that has been made in strengthening border security, including the significant reduction in unlawful crossings. These outcomes reflect meaningful coordination among federal, state, and local partners, and we are grateful for the continued commitment to this shared priority.
Our purpose in writing is not to oppose or obstruct, but to help ensure that the people who live, work, ranch, farm, and raise families along this border continue to have a meaningful voice in decisions that shape our daily lives.
[C]ollaborative efforts in the Big Bend region, including Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park, have demonstrated the effectiveness of adapting from a traditional physical barrier approach to a more strategic use of technology and smart infrastructure. That approach reflects how thoughtful coordination can meet security objectives while preserving natural resources, access, and the unique character of the region.
These outcomes are only possible because of open communication, local input, and a willingness to find practical solutions. That is exactly the type of engagement we are seeking today.
Comments are closed