Texas intends to lease land for Trump’s deportation plans

SUMMARY

Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham announced plans to lease a 1,400-acre ranch near the Texas-Mexico border to the Trump administration to support its mass deportation initiative. Buckingham said the state will collaborate with federal agencies once Trump’s team finalizes its strategy. The ranch, purchased in October after the previous owner opposed law enforcement activities and border wall construction, is expected to host deportation facilities and approximately 1.5 miles of border wall, which Buckingham anticipates will be completed soon. Buckingham emphasized the partnership's goal of enhancing public safety, stating, “We want our sons and daughters to be safe.” She expressed confidence in reaching an agreement that benefits Texans, with lease proceeds funding state education. The project involves coordination with the Department of Homeland Security, led by Trump’s nominee South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, and Tom Homan, designated as border czar.