State Rep. Eddie Morales Jr., whose district includes the Big Bend region, said Thursday he has asked Gov. Greg Abbott to push federal officials to halt any plans for permanent border wall construction in the area.
In a letter dated Feb. 19, Morales said the rugged terrain and remote geography of the region already serve as natural barriers and argued that additional physical infrastructure could cause long-term environmental and economic harm. The Big Bend area draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually and includes some of Texas’ most ecologically sensitive landscapes, he noted.
Morales said he supports border security efforts, including enforcement operations and technology, but believes a permanent wall is unnecessary for this portion of the state. He urged state leadership to advocate against construction that could disrupt the region’s natural features and tourism economy.
The request comes amid renewed concerns from residents and local stakeholders about potential federal border infrastructure projects in West Texas.
