In South Texas, the GOP immigration hard line is now political kryptonite
Overview
Backlash to President Donald Trump’s aggressive immigration policies is placing vulnerable Republicans in precarious positions, especially in regions like South Texas where Hispanic voters make up a significant portion of the electorate. These Republicans, who once championed hardline stances, are now rethinking their approaches to avoid alienating a crucial voter base.
The Shift in South Texas
In South Texas, Republican representatives like Monica De La Cruz and Tony Gonzales are reassessing their immigration strategies. De La Cruz, who once advocated for mass deportations, is now focusing on deporting only the “worst of the worst” and is advocating for new visa categories to support sectors like construction and agriculture. “President Trump made a promise, and he’s kept that promise by securing the border. That was stage one,” De La Cruz stated, emphasizing the need for “a conversation of true immigration reform.”
Gonzales is encouraging the GOP to concentrate on deporting convicted criminals instead of undocumented individuals who pose no public safety threat. This pivot marks a significant departure from Trump’s previous blanket deportation policies, which have faced growing scrutiny and backlash both locally and nationally.
Past Promises and Current Dilemmas
“With the border secure and Latinos responding to ICE raids and government overreach, the districts that Republicans thought were their future a year ago are likely to be their undoing,” commented Mike Madrid, a Republican strategist critical of Trump. The 15th Congressional District, once a Democratic stronghold, now serves as a litmus test for the GOP’s ability to maintain Hispanic support.
Efforts from Republicans to soften their immigration stance are seen as an attempt to preserve Trump’s gains with Hispanic voters in 2024. However, discontent with the administration’s deportation tactics is palpable, as evidenced by a Democrat’s recent victory in a typically Republican state Senate seat in Fort Worth.
The Business Community’s Concerns
The immigration crackdown is also affecting local businesses. Greg LaMantia, who operates a major beer wholesaler, reported a decline in sales due to the intense immigration raids, saying, “It’s chaos.” Daniel Guerrero, CEO of the South Texas Builders Association, highlighted the impact on the construction industry, where ICE’s actions have caused significant project delays.
Political Tightrope
De La Cruz’s shift in messaging has not been entirely well-received. Daniel Guerrero accused her of political opportunism, questioning her sudden interest in aiding his industry. “People feel abandoned because you never showed face, and now that there’s an actual crisis, you want to show face?” he commented. Similarly, the MAGA base, represented by Patricio County GOP Chair Rex Warner, expressed dissatisfaction with De La Cruz’s softer stance.
Conclusion
Republicans in South Texas face a challenging path as they attempt to balance loyalty to President Trump’s policies with the growing demands of their Hispanic constituents. As they navigate this political minefield, the outcome will have significant implications for the GOP’s future in key battleground areas. The ongoing debate underscores the complexities and unpredictable nature of immigration policy, a critical issue that continues to shape the American political landscape.
Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2026/02/15/south-texas-latino-republicans-immigration-00782129