Today, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (TX-16) released the following statement after S.2, the FY2026 Budget Resolution (also known as Reconciliation 2.0) passed in the House:
"Republicans are asking taxpayers to hand ICE and CBP another $70 billion, even though the Department of Homeland Security still has roughly $100 billion from the so-called 'One Big Beautiful Bill.' I voted NO.
"In communities like El Paso, we've already seen how that money is being spent: on massive detention facilities, no-bid contracts, and warehouses being converted into immigrant detention centers while serious concerns about oversight, conditions, and accountability remain."
"At a time when families are struggling with higher costs and programs they rely on are being cut, Congress should be investing in affordable housing, health care, infrastructure, and support for working families-not writing another blank check to reckless agencies with virtually no guardrails attached."
"Budgets reflect our priorities. This bill puts billions more toward an approach that has already raised serious questions about rampant abuse, lack of oversight, and effectiveness while completely ignoring the needs of the American people. I strongly oppose it."
The Congresswoman's testimony during the House Rules Committee hearing on Reconciliation 2.0, can be found
here.