Presidio Mayor John Ferguson is calling on state and federal elected officials who represent the Big Bend region to clarify their positions on the construction of a border wall, arguing that local residents across the political spectrum oppose the project.
In a public statement this week, Ferguson said opposition to a physical border wall in the Big Bend region has united residents and local leaders, including several border sheriffs, who have voiced concerns about the potential impact on the region’s communities, environment and economy.
“In the Big Bend — and across Texas — there is widespread opposition to a border wall being built in the Big Bend region,” Ferguson said. “This distaste for a wall includes folks of all political persuasions.”
Ferguson said the debate now shifts to the elected officials who represent the region at the state and federal levels. He noted that State Rep. Eddie Morales, whose District 74 includes much of the border region, has expressed opposition to a border wall in the area.
State Sen. Cesar Blanco, whose District 29 includes El Paso and parts of West Texas, has also opposed the wall, according to Ferguson.
However, Ferguson said other officials have not clearly stated their positions, including State Sen. Pete Flores, who represents District 24; U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, whose 23rd Congressional District includes much of the Texas-Mexico border; U.S. Sens. John Cornyn and Ted Cruz; and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott.
Ferguson argued that residents in the Big Bend region expect clear answers from their elected leaders.
“In my opinion, we Big Bend residents will not compromise for any physical wall being built here,” Ferguson said.
He also suggested that voters should consider candidates’ positions on the issue in upcoming elections.
“Any politician who states that their position is something akin to ‘nuanced,’ then they’re likely unwilling to take a stand to say ‘no,’” Ferguson said. “If any of our elected officials are too timid to stand up for us, then we might want to consider which candidates will stand up for us in November.”
Ferguson characterized the issue as decisive for the region.
“This is for all the marbles,” he said. “We don’t get a do-over.”
Opponents of a wall in the Big Bend region have argued that the area’s rugged terrain, tourism economy and protected lands make large-scale border barrier construction particularly controversial.
Supporters of border barriers elsewhere in Texas argue they are necessary to deter illegal crossings and improve security along the southern border.
Ferguson’s message concluded with a clear statement of his position: “No border wall in any of the Texas Big Bend counties.”
