Texas offers land for Trump’s deportation centers, naming initiative after slain girl.
At a Glance
- Texas offers 1,400-acre ranch for potential migrant deportation centers
- Initiative named after Jocelyn Nungaray, alleged victim of illegal immigrant crime
- Plan focuses on detaining and deporting violent undocumented migrants
- Texas seeks federal reimbursement for border security expenses
Texas Takes Bold Step in Border Security
In a significant move to bolster border security, the Texas government has initiated a plan to establish migrant deportation centers on state-owned land. The Texas Land Commissioner, Dawn Buckingham, is spearheading this effort by offering a substantial 1,400-acre ranch in rural Starr County, located in the Rio Grande Valley. This property, strategically positioned near major airports and a river bridge, is slated to house facilities for detaining violent undocumented migrants facing deportation.
The initiative, named the “Jocelyn Initiative,” bears the name of Jocelyn Nungaray, who was allegedly killed by illegal immigrants. This naming has garnered support from her family and local communities, underscoring the emotional weight of the project. The plan aligns with potential future federal efforts to enhance border control and expedite deportations.
We WILL gain complete operational control of our southern border.
After acquiring a 1,400-acre ranch in Starr County, Commission Buckingham is now offering to lease the land to the Trump Administration, where they can build deportation facilities to hold dangerous criminals and… pic.twitter.com/ZishhjJy37
— Texas General Land Office (@TXGLO) November 24, 2024
Strategic Location and Broader Implications
The chosen property, while lacking paved roads and having limited local resources, is considered well-situated for its intended purpose. Dawn Buckingham emphasized the land’s potential, stating, “We feel like this is actually very well-located. The land is very flat there. It’s adjacent to major airports. It’s also adjacent to a bridge over the river. So if it’s helpful, then I would love to partner up with the federal government. And if it’s not, then we’ll continue to look for ways to be helpful to them.”
This offer highlights a growing divide between states on immigration policies. While Texas and other Republican-led states are actively supporting aggressive border measures, Democratic-led states have vowed non-cooperation with mass deportation plans. This political schism is likely to intensify as the debate over funding, design, and legality of these facilities continues.
Financial Considerations and Future Plans
Texas has reportedly spent $10 billion on border security during the current administration, a substantial investment that state officials are now seeking to recoup. Republican Representative Chip Roy and others are pushing for federal reimbursement of these expenses. The state’s commitment to this cause is further evidenced by its willingness to provide additional land if needed.
The project envisions potential involvement of the U.S. military in non-enforcement tasks to facilitate operations. This aspect of the plan, along with the proposed use of the facilities for processing and deporting violent criminals, underscores the comprehensive approach Texas is taking to address border security concerns.
As Texas continues to position itself at the forefront of border security efforts, the state’s actions are likely to shape national discussions on immigration policy and enforcement strategies in the coming years.
Sources:
Texas offers Trump land on US-Mexico border for potential mass deportations
Texas offers Trump administration more land and support for mass deportations
