El Paso’s Democratic state representative on the media’s portrayal of her hometown, why the grassroots is key to making gains for her party, and why she thinks immigration legislation will hurt Gov. Rick Perry on the campaign trail.
Demographics
Explore population trends, diversity, and data shaping Texas communities, politics, and policy.
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Demographics
Policy Shift Hasn’t Reached Border Patrol
Immigration and Customs Enforcement directed prosecutors in June to use discretion when placing illegal immigrants in deportation proceedings. But attorneys for immigrants facing deportation say the new rules haven’t filtered down to the ground level — the U.S. Border Patrol.
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Demographics
Mexican Journalist Wins Asylum in Texas
Mexican journalist Alejandro Hernandez Pacheco was granted asylum last week by the U.S. government. His attorney says it’s a sign U.S. officials are no longer confident the Mexican government can protect its citizens from drug cartels.
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Demographics
Former El Paso Councilman Will Challenge U.S. Rep. Reyes
Former city councilman Beto O’Rourke’s decision to run is no big surprise. But it sets up another big political brawl in this city known for bruising Democratic melees.
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Demographics
What’s Different About the Border Economy?
On the national stage, Texas’ economy is its best selling point. But this so-called “Texas Miracle” doesn’t extend statewide: In the border region, unemployment reaches as high as 13.2 percent, and the median income is 30 percent lower than the statewide average.
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Demographics
31 Days, 31 Ways: Despite State Budget Cuts, Border Security Funding Increases
DAY 30 of our month-long series on the effects of new state laws and budget cuts: During a legislative session where hardly any services were spared the budget ax, funding for border security actually increased.
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Demographics
José Rodríguez: The TT Interview
The first-term state senator on being outgunned by Republicans during the legislative session, what the Democrats accomplished and how he thinks Gov. Rick Perry will do in 2012.
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Demographics
Perry: Feds Owe Texas for Incarcerating Illegal Immigrants
Just days before announcing his candidacy for president, Gov. Rick Perry sent a letter to the Obama administration saying Washington owes Texas more than $349 million for the state’s incarceration of illegal immigrants.
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Criminal Justice
Texas Gun Dealer Sues Feds Over New Reporting Requirement
A new reporting requirement for firearms dealers in four border states, including Texas, intended to curb the flow of weapons into Mexico has prompted a veteran San Antonio gun dealer to file suit against the federal government.
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Demographics
Texas Peace Officers to Train Mexican Law Enforcment
An agreement signed on the Texas border this week paves the way for the Webb Country Sheriff’s Department and other local law enforcement officers to train peace officers in Mexico and Central America.