Texas has acquired a 1,400-acre ranch along the Rio Grande River to bolster border security and expand wall construction. This strategic move aims to address critical areas known for human trafficking, weapons, and drug smuggling. Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham emphasized the state's commitment to halting illegal activities on the property, highlighting the previous owner's refusal to allow law enforcement access.

Construction of an additional mile of border wall is set to begin soon, with the first panel installed on Tuesday. The timing held special significance as the family of Jocelyn Nungaray, a victim of a crime allegedly committed by illegal immigrants, witnessed the installation. Her mother, Alexis, spoke poignantly about the ongoing pain and the need for enhanced border security.

This land acquisition builds upon Governor Greg Abbott's 2021 initiative to continue border wall construction following the Biden administration's halt to the federal project. Texas has also implemented a floating buoy barrier in the Rio Grande, attributing these measures to a decrease in apprehensions.

Buckingham has extended an offer to President-elect Trump and incoming border czar Tom Homan to utilize the newly acquired property for processing, detention, and coordination efforts related to deportations. Homan and Abbott recently visited Eagle Pass, Texas, where they met with and served meals to Texas National Guard and Department of Public Safety personnel.

Representative Chip Roy, present at the event, urged fellow Republicans to prioritize stricter immigration policies upon Trump's inauguration. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, citing the loss of American lives and the mandate given to Republicans to address border security.