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Sinaloa Cartel Driver Faces Life in Prison After Guilty Verdict in Texas

A 51-year-old Harlingen resident has been convicted for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. Image for illustration purposes
A 51-year-old Harlingen resident has been convicted for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. Image for illustration purposes

U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas

VICTORIA, Texas – A 51-year-old Harlingen resident has been convicted for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl.

The jury deliberated for less than an hour before convicting Jimenez James Love guilty following a two-day trial.

“For too long, the Sinaloa Cartel and other foreign terrorist organizations relied on drug couriers to finance their campaigns of violence and terror. That ends now,” said Ganjei. “By transporting the hidden narcotics, Love engaged in the calculated deception cartels have used to flood our streets with these poisons. His conviction demonstrates my office’s resolve to dismantle the financial networks that sustain these terrorists.”

The investigation began June 30, 2021, when law enforcement discovered Love was transporting methamphetamine and fentanyl concealed in the gas tank of his girlfriend’s vehicle.

At trial, the jury heard how authorities had conducted a traffic stop and discovered approximately 11 kilograms of methamphetamine and 5.32 kilograms of fentanyl.

Love was hired as a driver to transport drugs for the Sinaloa Cartel. Love’s load was one of many shipments this arm of the organization had made. Testimony revealed that the number of shipments was so vast that an accurate number of shipments could not be determined. However, evidence revealed the single load of fentanyl that Love was carrying contained over two million potential lethal doses.

The defense attempted to convince the jury that Love was not involved in an ongoing drug trafficking operation. The jury did not believe the claims and found him guilty as charged.

U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton presided over the trial and set sentencing for April 17. At that time, Love faces up to life in federal prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine on both conspiracy counts.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Texas Department of Public Safety and Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Patti Hubert Booth prosecuted the case.

Updated January 21, 2026

19‑Year‑Old Penitas Man Sentenced for Impeding Federal Agents

U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera has now ordered Torres to serve six months in federal prison. At the hearing, the court described Torres’ conduct as unlawful towards someone performing their official duties. In handing down the sentence, the court noted his sentence is warranted as no one is above the law. Image for illustration purposes
U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera has now ordered Torres to serve six months in federal prison. At the hearing, the court described Torres’ conduct as unlawful towards someone performing their official duties. In handing down the sentence, the court noted his sentence is warranted as no one is above the law. Image for illustration purposes

U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 19-year-old South Texas man has been ordered to federal prison for interfering with officers in the course of their duties.

Diego Masiel Torres pleaded guilty Oct. 29, 2025. 

U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera has now ordered Torres to serve six months in federal prison. At the hearing, the court described Torres’ conduct as unlawful towards someone performing their official duties. In handing down the sentence, the court noted his sentence is warranted as no one is above the law.  

“There is, at present, an unfortunate belief that the public can freely obstruct law enforcement from carrying out their duties, and do so without consequence. Today’s sentence shows just how mistaken that belief is,” said Ganjei. “If you want to express your disagreement with a particular federal law or policy, there is a right way to do so, and a wrong way — and tangling with the police is one hundred percent always the wrong way. Today, Mr. Torres learned that lesson the hard way.”

“Those who endanger our agents and undermine the safety of our communities will face serious consequences,” said acting Special Agent in Charge John A. Pasciucco of HSI San Antonio. “Interfering with federal law enforcement is a grave offense, and today’s sentencing makes clear that such actions will be met with swift and decisive justice.”

On Aug. 27, 2025, authorities were conducting a consensual worksite enforcement operation in Harlingen. Upon their arrival, several people fled from the area. While authorities attempted to apprehend an illegal alien, Torres attempted to physically interfere by trying to remove the individual from custody and placing the law enforcement officer in a chokehold. Additional agents intervened and subsequently arrested Torres.   

He has been and will remain in custody. 

Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney L. Salazar prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. 

Updated January 22, 2026

Task Force on Governance of Early Childhood Education and Care Established

Governor Greg Abbott launched the Task Force on Early Childhood Education and Care to improve the quality, access, and affordability of childcare for Texas families. Photo: Office of The Governor
Governor Greg Abbott launched the Task Force on Early Childhood Education and Care to improve the quality, access, and affordability of childcare for Texas families. Photo: Office of The Governor

Governor Greg Abbott launched the Task Force on Early Childhood Education and Care to improve the quality, access, and affordability of childcare for Texas families.

Governor Abbott with members of the community at the task force announcement.

“The real reason why we passed this bill, the real reason why we’re having this announcement today, is because of the importance of helping parents across the entire state be able to access quality and affordable early childcare and child education for their children,” said Governor Abbott. “Today I am announcing the governor’s task force on early childhood education and care. The goal is to evaluate childcare and early learning programs across all state agencies. We must put an end to the endless bureaucracy, the unclear standards of care, and the inflated costs that make it difficult for parents to get the early childhood care and education that they need for their children.”

The Governor was joined by Senator Donna Campbell, Representative Alan Schoolcraft, Chairman Peter J. Holt, Texas Workforce Commission Chairman Joe Esparza, Representative Mark LaHood, Representative John Lujan, Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District superintendent Paige Meloni, Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Morath, and Texas Health and Human Services Executive Commissioner Stephanie Muth. 

Officials Joining the Governor for the Task Force Announcement. Photo: Office of The Governor
Photo: Office of The Governor

House Bill 117 (Schoolcraft/Campbell) amends the Education Code to establish the governor’s task force on the governance of early childhood education and care for the purpose of addressing the governance and operational challenges of the early childhood education system in Texas. 

At the event, Governor Abbott named Peter J. Holt chair and appointed Jeff Austin, III, Leslie Callahan, Lori Gabbert Charney, Grant Coates, Reagan Curran, Tracy Hanson, Ed.D., Marisela Nava, John “J.” Puckett, Jennifer Stockemer, Ph.D. and Nancy Windham, to the Governor’s Task Force on the Governance of Early Childhood Education and Care for terms set to expire on September 1, 2027. 

Peter J. Holt of San Antonio is the CEO and general manager of HOLT Group. Holt received a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of the Incarnate Word.

Jeff Austin, III of Whitehouse is the chairman of the Board of Austin Bank Texas, N.A. and Austin Bancorp. Austin received a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Business and a Master of Business Administration from The University of Texas (UT) at Tyler and a graduate of the Harvard Business School Advanced Management Program, Southwestern Graduate School of Banking at SMU, Banking Leadership Texas, and Leadership Tyler.  

Leslie Callahan of Amarillo is the senior director of Head Start and early childhood development at the Region 16 Service Center. Callahan received a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Education from West Texas A&M University (TAMU).

Lori Gabbert Charney of Austin is the Texas title V director of maternal and child health at the Texas Department of State Health Services. Charney received a Bachelor of Arts in Government from UT Austin and a Master of Public Affairs from the LBJ School of Public Affairs.

Grant Coates of Fort Worth is CEO and president of The Miles Foundation. Coates received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the University of North Texas and a Master of Business Administration from Texas Christian University.

Reagan Curran of Fort Worth is a self-contained special education teacher for Fort Worth Independent School District. Curran has seven years of experience in preschool classrooms. Curran received a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, Special Education for Elementary from Abilene Christian University.

Tracy Hanson, Ed.D. of Killeen is the owner of Education Connection Preschool and Child Care, founder and principal of Oak Creek Academy, and an adjunct professor at TAMU –Central Texas. Hanson received a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, a Master in Educational Intervention Studies, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Mary Hardin Baylor.

Marisela Nava of Brownsville is the director of the Texas Southmost College Child Care Center. Nava received an Associate of Applied Science in Child Care and Development from Texas Southmost College, a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences from UT Brownsville and is currently pursuing a Master of Education in Early Childhood from UT Rio Grande Valley.

John “J.” Puckett of Dallas is retired. He previously served as managing director and senior partner at Boston Consulting Group. Puckett received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Religion from Duke University and a Master of Business Administration in Finance and Management from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Jennifer Stockemer, Ph.D. of Prosper is the owner/director of Ivy Vine Preschool, LLC. Stockemer received a Bachelor of Business Administration from Southern Methodist University and a Master of Science in Child Development and a Doctor of Philosophy in Family Studies from Texas Woman’s University.

Nancy Windham of Nacogdoches is Regional Economic Development Advisor of the Texas Forest Country Partnership. Windham attended Stephen F. Austin State University and is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute. Her studies also include basic industrial development at TAMU.

Truck Fire Causes Lane Reduction on Northbound US 281 in Falfurrias

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The lane closure is expected to remain in place for approximately 4 to 6 hours while crews continue cleanup and ensure the roadway is safe for drivers. Image courtesy of TxDOT
The lane closure is expected to remain in place for approximately 4 to 6 hours while crews continue cleanup and ensure the roadway is safe for drivers. Image courtesy of TxDOT

Texas Border Business

Falfurrias, Texas — Northbound US 281 is currently reduced to one lane near the intersection of FM 3066 as first responders work to clear debris from a truck fire that occurred earlier this morning.

The lane closure is expected to remain in place for approximately 4 to 6 hours while crews continue cleanup and ensure the roadway is safe for drivers.

Motorists traveling through the area are urged to slow down, remain alert, and follow traffic control directions as emergency personnel complete their work.

The truck involved in the incident was hauling produce.

Information source: TxDOT

CBP Officers Intercept Over $1.2 Million in Narcotics at Anzalduas Bridge

CBP seizes $1.2 million in narcotics. USCBP image

MISSION, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Field Operations officers at the Anzalduas International Bridge seized $1,119,000 worth of alleged cocaine, $54,000 of alleged fentanyl and $87,000 of alleged heroin in two separate incidents over the weekend.

“Our CBP officers’ expertise with our tools and technology is second to none,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Port of Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas.

On Jan. 17, CBP officers encountered a RAM 1500 attempting to make entry to the U.S. from Mexico. The vehicle was selected for further review utilizing nonintrusive inspection equipment and a canine team. Physical inspection led to the discovery of 14 packages of alleged cocaine with a combined weight of 32.18 pounds concealed within the vehicle.

The following day, CBP officers encountered a Ford sedan attempting to make entry to the U.S. from Mexico. The vehicle was selected for further inspection utilizing nonintrusive inspection equipment and a canine team. Physical inspection led to the discovery of 22 packages of alleged cocaine with a combined weight of 52.07 pounds, one package of alleged fentanyl with a weight of 2.33 pounds and two packages of alleged heroin with a combined weight of 4.58 pounds concealed within the vehicle.

CBP seized the narcotics and vehicles. Homeland Security Investigations Special Agents arrested the drivers and initiated criminal investigations.

Hidalgo County Drainage District #1 Secures $15M Grant for Regional Water Initiative

L-R Precinct 1 Commissioner David L. Fuentes and HCDD1 General Manager Raul E. Sesin, PE outside the Texas Capitol. Image courtesy of Hidalgo County
L-R Precinct 1 Commissioner David L. Fuentes and HCDD1 General Manager Raul E. Sesin, PE outside the Texas Capitol. Image courtesy of Hidalgo County

Hidalgo County Drainage District No. 1 (HCDD1) is pleased to announce the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) has awarded the district a $15 million grant for the construction of the Delta Region Water Management Project. These funds were previously allocated by lawmakers during the 89th Texas Legislative Regular Session last year.

The Board of Directors awarded the $15 million grant at its regular board meeting held in Austin. County officials thanked the agency, Senators Joan Huffman and Charles Perry, Rep. Cody Harris and the local Hidalgo County legislative delegation, including Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa and Rep. Armando “Mando” Martinez, for their tireless efforts in getting the funding approved in the General Appropriations Act.

Precinct 1 Commissioner David L. Fuentes testifying before the Senate Water, Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee. Image courtesy of Hidalgo County

The project is a first-of-its-kind regional water supply and flood mitigation project located in the northernmost areas of Hidalgo County and southern Willacy County.

“With the partnership of local officials and Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, I am incredibly proud to share our achievement in the approval of $15,000,000 for the Delta Region Water Management Project in the Hidalgo County Drainage District No.1,” said Rep. Martinez. “During the course of multiple Legislative sessions, we have fought for infrastructure development and investment for the Rio Grande Valley’s water and wastewater systems. This is a huge step forward as we continue to advocate for South Texas’ quality of life.”

The reclamation project involves the capture and treatment of water from a major HCDD1 drainage outfall channel, alleviating floods while creating a new water source for the region. Local officials have hailed the project as a solution that will help capture stormwater on a regional scale to mitigate flooding, while also providing a new water supply source.

“The Delta Reclamation Project is a forward-thinking strategy that Texas needs. It captures stormwater, treats it, and delivers it to customers,” said Sen. Hinojosa. “This is a win-win for communities facing ongoing droughts and growing demand.”

The HCDD1 completed a successful pilot project to test the feasibility of the project in 2024 and the TWDB awarded it the prestigious 2023 Texas Rain Catcher Award. 

“This $15 million grant from the Texas Water Development Board is a monumental win for our region. The Delta Region Water Management Project is a true first-of-its-kind solution that not only provides critical flood mitigation but also secures a vital new water source for our communities,” said Raul E. Sesin, PE, General Manager, HCDD1. “We will continue to work to secure the remaining funding necessary to complete this important project. We are deeply thankful to the TWDB, our legislative delegation, and our Hidalgo County Drainage District No. 1 Board of Directors for their continued support of this innovative, award-winning project.”

Local officials visited the state capitol multiple times during the 89th session to advocate for funding. Hidalgo County Precinct 1 Commissioner David L. Fuentes testified before the Senate Water, Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee. 

“This funding is the result of years of collaboration between Hidalgo County, the Drainage District, and our legislative partners,” said Commissioner Fuentes. “Our state leaders understood the urgency and importance of this project, and their support ensures our region has innovative tools to address flooding and water supply challenges.” 

For more information on the project visit: www.hcdd1.org.

McAllen Marathon Scott Crane Run Draws Record Numbers

The City of McAllen marked another successful year of the McAllen Marathon Scott Crane Run presented by H-E-B Helping Here, drawing more than 13,000 runners, spectators, volunteers, and supporters to one of South Texas’ premier running events. Image courtesy of The City of Mcllen
The City of McAllen marked another successful year of the McAllen Marathon Scott Crane Run presented by H-E-B Helping Here, drawing more than 13,000 runners, spectators, volunteers, and supporters to one of South Texas’ premier running events. Image courtesy of The City of Mcllen

The City of McAllen marked another successful year of the McAllen Marathon Scott Crane Run presented by H-E-B Helping Here, drawing more than 13,000 runners, spectators, volunteers, and supporters to one of South Texas’ premier running events.

Crowds gather in the early morning for the Scott Crane Run McAllen Marathon. Image courtesy of The City of McAllen

Now in its 13th year, the marathon continues to grow as a destination race promoting health, wellness, and community pride. Participants competed across multiple distances, including the full marathon, half marathon, relay, 10K, 5K, and Kids Final Mile, welcoming runners of all ages and experience levels.

This year’s event attracted runners from 24 states and four countries, underscoring the marathon’s expanding regional and national reach. The USATF-certified Boston Qualifier full marathon course offered participants a fast, flat, and scenic route through McAllen. Beyond the race itself, the marathon serves as a powerful platform for community involvement, reflected in the growing number of neighborhood cheer stations and volunteers who help make the day successful.

Hitting the streets in the annual McAllen Marathon. Image courtesy of The City of McAllen

“The McAllen Marathon reflects the heart of our city,” said City Manager Isaac J. Tawil. “It brings people together from near and far, supports healthy lifestyles, and showcases McAllen as a welcoming and vibrant destination, made possible by our city staff who help create a safe and energetic experience for runners and spectators.” 

The McAllen Marathon is named in honor of former City Commissioner Scott Crane, a passionate advocate for health, fitness, and quality of life in McAllen. His vision continues to guide the event’s mission of encouraging active living and community connection.  

Celebrating the accomplishment of finishing the 2026 McAllen Marathon. Image courtesy of The City of McAllen

The McAllen Marathon Scott Crane Run is presented by H-E-B Helping Here and proudly sponsored by McAllen International Airport, Kemper Insurance, Clark Chevrolet – Clark Honda, Zambrano Law Firm, Moveo Performance, L&F Distributors–Michelob, Cure Hydration, and UT RGV. Media partners include: 5 News, Radio United, iHeart Media and Entravision. 

A runner after finishing the 2026 McAllen Marathon. Image courtesy of The City of McAllen

The McAllen Marathon Scott Crane Running Series keeps runners move all year.

Don’t miss a run, register early to secure your spot in every race this year: 

 
• MXLAN Neon Nights 5K
• Texas 1836 Run – 8K, 11K and 18.36K 
• Independence 4K
• Fright Nite 5K
• Turkey Trot 5K and 10K

Runners who complete the full series in 2026 will earn a Complete Series Medal, which will be presented at the 2027 McAllen Marathon. 

The City of McAllen is committed to supporting youth fitness and wellness, and we encourage parents to learn more about the McAllen Marathon Scott Crane Jr. Running Series. 

Youth runners who complete the Jr. Series runs, will earn a Complete Jr. Series Medal at the 2027 McAllen Marathon!

• Tiny 2K Glow Run
• Dino 2K Dash
• Tricks & Treats 2K
• Turkey Trot 2K
• Reindeer 2K Dash 

For more information on staying active, visit McAllen Marathon | McAllen Marathon Running Series

Hidalgo County Commissioner Eddie Cantu Seeks Re-Election in Precinct 2

Hidalgo County Commissioner Eduardo “Eddie” Cantu has announced his bid for re-election to represent Precinct 2, saying he plans to continue focusing on infrastructure, public safety, and community investment. Courtesy image
Hidalgo County Commissioner Eduardo “Eddie” Cantu has announced his bid for re-election to represent Precinct 2, saying he plans to continue focusing on infrastructure, public safety, and community investment. Eduardo “Eddie” Cantu. Courtesy image

Texas Border Business

Hidalgo County Commissioner Eduardo “Eddie” Cantu has announced his bid for re-election to represent Precinct 2, saying he plans to continue focusing on infrastructure, public safety, and community investment.

Cantu has served on the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court for more than 11 years. During that time, he has helped secure more than $100 million in state and federal funding for local projects, according to his campaign. These include road expansions, drainage improvements, hike-and-bike trails, youth facilities, and park development. He has said the funding reduced the burden on local taxpayers while improving services across the region.

Among the projects highlighted is the county’s first inclusive park designed for children with and without disabilities. Cantu said the project helped encourage other cities to build or upgrade parks to be wheelchair accessible. He has also supported the development of multi-city hike-and-bike trails with tunnel crossings for pedestrian safety.

“We are currently in the process of appropriating close to half a billion dollars to improve our drainage system,” Cantu said. “These funds, accumulated between 2018 and 2025, represent the largest investment ever made by the Hidalgo County Drainage District within a seven-year period.”

According to his office, drainage projects have been completed or are underway in Pharr, San Juan, Alamo, South McAllen, and Hidalgo. Roadway improvements have included work on Nolana, Taylor, Eldora, Cesar Chavez, and Dicker roads.

Cantu said his decision to seek another term is based on continuing work for residents of Precinct 2. “I’m filing for re-election to continue bringing improvements to our community, especially for those who need it most,” he said. “Helping children and working families is my passion.”

He has also been involved with several nonprofit and civic organizations. Cantu has served on the board of the Boys & Girls Club of Pharr–San Juan for nearly 20 years and has supported efforts that raised more than $10 million for youth facilities. He is a founding member of the PSJA Education Foundation and Christian’s Manor, which supports single parents pursuing higher education.

Cantu, a lifelong Precinct 2 resident, was born and raised in Pharr. He earned a business degree from St. Mary’s University and a law degree from the University of Texas. Before entering public office, he worked in real estate law and development.

“We will always work to be efficient, conservative, and mindful of everyone’s needs,” Cantu said. “We owe everything to the people who live and work in Precinct 2 and throughout Hidalgo County.”

Texas A&M Expands Health and Veterinary Education in McAllen

The future of health care in the Rio Grande Valley was celebrated this morning with the ribbon-cutting of the new Texas A&M Nursing Education and Research Building. The event highlighted how the state-of-the-art facility will support nursing education and advance research focused on zoonotic and public health initiatives in the region. All courtesy images
The future of health care in the Rio Grande Valley was celebrated this morning with the ribbon-cutting of the new Texas A&M Nursing Education and Research Building. The event highlighted how the state-of-the-art facility will support nursing education and advance research focused on zoonotic and public health initiatives in the region. All courtesy images

Texas Border Business

Texas A&M University marked the opening of its new Nursing Education and Research Building in McAllen with a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating expanded education and health care opportunities in the Rio Grande Valley. The 61,000-square-foot facility, located at the Texas A&M Higher Education Center at McAllen, brings together the Texas A&M College of Nursing and the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences under one roof.

The building houses classrooms, study areas, and a clinical simulation center and serves as home to the university’s One Health Hub. It opened as the first cohort of 24 nursing students began classes, marking the start of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offered entirely in the Valley.

“Today celebrates years’ worth of collaborative efforts to amplify the best of Texas A&M education, research, and resources across Texas,” said Texas A&M University System Chancellor Glenn Hegar. “As we recognize the need for enhanced educational opportunities and maximized health care access in the Valley, it only makes sense that the Texas A&M Colleges of Nursing and of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences would step up to the plate.”


State Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, who represents District 20, attended the ceremony and recognized the expansion as an important step in strengthening higher education and workforce development in the Rio Grande Valley. He has long supported efforts to increase access to educational and health care resources in South Texas.

The nearly $50 million facility was approved by the Texas A&M System Board of Regents in 2023, though planning for expanded nursing education in South Texas began nearly a decade earlier. The College of Nursing expects the program to add about 100 nurses to the workforce each year through its four-semester curriculum.


Indra K. Reddy, interim chief operating officer and senior vice president of Texas A&M Health, said the facility strengthens the university’s long-term commitment to the region. “The Nursing Education and Research Building will help prepare the next generation of nurses to serve with clinical excellence, cultural understanding, and a deep commitment to Texas communities,” Reddy said.

The expansion comes as Texas faces a growing shortage of nurses. The Texas Center for Nursing Workforce Studies projects a statewide shortfall of more than 56,000 registered nurses by 2036. In the Rio Grande Valley, the shortage is expected to reach nearly 6,000 nurses.


“Preparing the next generation of nurses locally in the Valley develops a workforce that is uniquely qualified to take care of these communities,” said Leann Horsley, dean of the College of Nursing. She added that the program is designed to address evolving health care needs while expanding research and service opportunities in South Texas.

The facility also supports veterinary medicine and biomedical research. The College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences occupies a 5,000-square-foot space dedicated to One Health programming, which connects human, animal, and environmental health. Research will focus on transboundary and zoonotic diseases, veterinary public health, and biosecurity.


“Our research scientists, students, and community partners play an important role in identifying solutions to recognize, prevent, and treat diseases that affect both animals and humans,” said Bonnie Rush, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine. She noted that the facility will support screening for diseases such as African Swine Fever and New World Screwworm, which pose potential threats to livestock and public health.

The veterinary program will also serve as a base for the Texas A&M Veterinary Emergency Team during regional deployments and its annual participation in Operation Border Health, which provides free care to residents and pets in the Valley.

Texas A&M has maintained a presence in McAllen since 2004, with the Higher Education Center launching academic programs in 2017. Today, the center offers 10 degree programs and continues to expand. Future plans include a research facility led by Texas A&M AgriLife Research.


Ernest Aliseda, chief operating officer of the Higher Education Center at McAllen, said the expansion reflects a long-term investment in the region. “Our students earn the same Texas A&M degree and become part of the Aggie Network,” he said. “With the support of our community partners, we will continue to prepare the next generation of leaders for South Texas.”

Agency Leader Highlights Importance of Offshore Energy Development

BOEM’s release of a Proposed Notice of Sale for Lease Sale BBG2 (Big Beautiful Gulf 2) scheduled for March 11, 2026, would offer approximately 15,000 unleased blocks covering nearly 80 million acres of the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf in the Gulf of America. Image for illustration purposes
BOEM’s release of a Proposed Notice of Sale for Lease Sale BBG2 (Big Beautiful Gulf 2) scheduled for March 11, 2026, would offer approximately 15,000 unleased blocks covering nearly 80 million acres of the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf in the Gulf of America. Image for illustration purposes

AUSTIN, Texas – Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., submitted comments on behalf of the General Land Office (GLO) supporting the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s (BOEM) announcement of its proposed second Gulf of America offshore oil and gas lease sale under the One Big Beautiful Bill. This move is not only a critical step toward restoring American energy dominance but also toward bolstering national security. 

“Texas is the energy capital of the world, and expanding responsible offshore production in the Gulf of America is essential to our nation’s economic strength and national security,” said Commissioner Buckingham. “I applaud BOEM for continuing to deliver on President Trump’s commitment to predictable, pro-energy leasing that puts America first.”

BOEM’s release of a Proposed Notice of Sale for Lease Sale BBG2 (Big Beautiful Gulf 2) scheduled for March 11, 2026, would offer approximately 15,000 unleased blocks covering nearly 80 million acres of the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf in the Gulf of America. 

In response to this proposal, Commissioner Buckingham formally submitted comments to BOEM signaling strong support for the lease sale and reaffirming the Texas GLO’s role as steward of energy-rich state lands and submerged offshore acreage. 

As Texas Land Commissioner, Buckingham oversees more than 13 million acres of state land that generate revenue for Texas public education through oil and gas production, mineral leasing, and surface leasing. Since taking office, oil and gas activity on GLO-managed lands has generated roughly $6 billion for the Texas Permanent School Fund (PSF), a constitutionally protected endowment supporting K–12 education statewide. 

The GLO manages all submerged state lands extending three marine leagues–approximately ten miles–into the Gulf of America and is the largest mineral owner on behalf of the schoolchildren of Texas. Since the creation of the PSF, it has grown from a $2 million endowment to a $60.6 billion endowment. 

Read Commissioner Buckingham’s letter submitted as comments to BOEM below: