Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos is taking a leading role in shaping a more balanced and pragmatic approach to immigration policy—one that includes both strong border enforcement and expanded legal pathways to employment. In recent weeks, Mayor Villalobos has engaged with members of Congress and fellow mayors to elevate local voices and advocate for realistic, economically sound solutions.
On June 18, 2025, Villalobos shared a message on social media reinforcing what he described as a clear consensus among border communities: individuals who pose a criminal or national security threat—or who have final deportation orders—should be deported. However, he emphasized that beyond politics, leaders across the spectrum increasingly recognize a key reality: the U.S. needs human labor.
“We must create lawful employment opportunities across all sectors,” Villalobos wrote, stressing the importance of labor market access in sustaining the local and national economy.
As a member of the South Texas Alliance of Cities, Villalobos joined a joint statement released on June 12, 2025, calling for improved coordination between local and federal agencies on immigration. The statement, reflecting concerns from mayors across the region, criticized the current lack of communication, which they said has caused confusion and disruption, particularly for small businesses, the cornerstone of local economies.
“These actions are being carried out solely by federal authorities,” the Alliance noted. “The current lack of communication and transparency has led to confusion, concern, and operational disruptions.”
In a video produced by the City of McAllen and shared shortly after, Villalobos acknowledged federal efforts in reducing illegal border crossings, noting they had reached a 10-year low. Yet he urged the federal government to go further—not just by enhancing enforcement, but by expanding lawful employment options for individuals already residing in the U.S.
“Let’s not allow the perfect to become the enemy of the good,” Villalobos said. “There should be pathways to employment now, and the federal government can discuss citizenship later.”
He also referenced a recent discussion with Congressman Henry Cuellar, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz, and Congressman Vicente Gonzalez. The bipartisan meeting focused on how enforcement-only strategies, while removing bad actors, have also hurt industries dependent on immigrant labor, from agriculture to retail. In response to a Facebook post by Frank Estrada asking, “Asking an honest question, did Congresswoman De La Cruz agree with you?” Villalobos replied: “Yes.”
“These policies, if not complemented by smart labor reforms, are negatively affecting all sectors of our economy,” Villalobos said.
The mayor’s stance aligns with the position of the South Texas Alliance of Cities: to enforce the law where necessary, while also recognizing the economic importance of integrating lawful workers into the system.
Mayor Villalobos closed his message with a call to action: “Together, Republicans and Democrats thinking logically and with common sense can solve this. God bless and save the USA!”
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