In a wide-ranging interview, Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst talked about the state budget, education, immigration, water, transportation, and his hopes and plans for the legislative session that began this week.
Immigration
In-depth reporting on border issues, policies, communities, and the impact of immigration across the state, from The Texas Tribune.
Report: $18 Billion Spent on Federal Immigration Enforcement
A new report estimates that the federal government spent $18 billion on immigration enforcement efforts in fiscal year 2012, about 24 percent more than it spent on all major law enforcement agencies combined.
Security Policy Shift in Mexico is Seen as Push to Reaffirm Sovereignty
A former U.S. Department of Homeland Security agent says that a new security policy announced in Mexico signals a growing focus on sovereignty and a shift from some initiatives considered priorities by the United States.
In Mexico, a New Plan Targeting Drug Violence
New President Enrique Peña Nieto of Mexico recently announced a plan targeting violence in the country. As the country and analysts wait to see results, some aren’t placing bets that the situation will improve soon.
State Records Shed Light on Texas’ Early “Illegals”
Mexican immigrants are apprehended every day on the Texas-Mexico border. But as Jerry Patterson, the Texas land commissioner, likes to remind fellow Republicans, the shoe used to be on the other foot.
Mexico’s New Political Regime Sparks Human Rights Activism in Texas
Weeks after Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto’s inauguration, a group of activists in Texas is organizing a new effort they say will serve as a watchdog to monitor Mexico’s treatment of its citizens.
Decision Nears on Coal Project in Border Town
Plans for a coal mine in Eagle Pass took a step forward last month and could get final approval in January. But opponents of the proposal, who say the project raises serious health concerns, say they haven’t given up the fight.
After 20 Years, NAFTA Draws Broad Spectrum of Praise and Controversy
Twenty years after NAFTA was enacted, stakeholders met in Texas to discuss its future. A who’s who of business leaders touted NAFTA’s success. But critics say the pact created an unbalanced economy and displaced workers.
George W. Bush: Address Immigration Reform With “Benevolent Spirit”
At a conference in Dallas, former President George W. Bush urged the nation’s leaders to debate immigration reform with compassion and kindness.
Plans Show Wide Gap Remains on Immigration
A day after U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison introduced immigration legislation that would give legal status to some undocumented minors, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus laid out its own goals for reform.


