Tucson Standard

U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani recently led a group of nine first-term Members of Congress on a trip to the Arizona-Mexico border. The purpose was to understand the current situation, meet with officials, and tour facilities including the border wall.

Ciscomani expressed pride in leading the delegation to southern Arizona. "I was proud to lead a Congressional delegation of freshman Members of Congress to southern Arizona to learn more about the border’s three buckets - trade, immigration, and security," he said. He emphasized the importance of working together on legislation that addresses all aspects of border issues.

The delegation included Reps. Mike Kennedy (UT-03), Julie Fedorchak (ND-At Large), Jeff Hurd (CO-03), Tim Moore (NC-14), Derek Schmidt (KS-02), Dave Taylor (OH-02), Jeff Crank (CO-05), John McGuire (VA-05), and Riley Moore (WV-02).

The trip began with meetings with Speaker Mike Johnson and other key congressional leaders. They discussed strategies for addressing border challenges during this session of Congress.

During their visit, they met with local law enforcement and stakeholders from various counties in Arizona to discuss public safety and agriculture industry support. The group also toured the Mariposa Port of Entry in Nogales, highlighting its role in legal trade between the U.S. and Mexico.

Additionally, they visited a warehouse in Nogales to discuss agricultural trade's impact on supply chains and tariffs. At the Nogales Station, Border Patrol agents shared insights into changes under new administration policies.

The delegation also conducted a nighttime tour alongside National Border Patrol Council members to understand cartel threats better. Ciscomani has introduced legislation aimed at increasing penalties for those aiding criminals at the border.

Concluding their trip, they met with military units involved in supporting border security efforts at Fort Huachuca.

After returning to Washington D.C., they held a press conference discussing their findings and policy implications.

Rep. Julie Fedorchak commented on learning about the nation's border crisis complexities: “Thank you to Congressman Ciscomani for hosting me... Learning more about...the far-reaching consequences of President Biden’s refusal...was eye-opening.”

Rep. Mike Kennedy praised recent achievements: “It was incredible...just in the first few months of President Trump’s leadership.”

Rep. Jeff Hurd highlighted Border Patrol's dual role: "During our visit...Border Patrol agents play a vital role not only in stopping illegal activities but also ensuring legitimate goods move freely."

Other representatives echoed similar sentiments regarding support for ongoing efforts under President Trump's administration.