Rep. Cuellar Pushes for Responsible Homeland Security Investments

As Ranking Member, I helped lead the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee markup of the FY2027 Department of Homeland Security funding bill. As a border state member, I support responsible investments in homeland security, border security technology, and employee support programs that strengthen public safety and support the men and women carrying out this mission. At the same time, I raised serious concerns about oversight, funding priorities, and the need to prevent unnecessary border wall construction, especially when crossings are at some of the lowest levels recorded and proposed projects could impact sacred, protected, or environmentally sensitive areas. An unprecedented amount of funding outside the regular appropriations process makes transparency, accountability, and oversight even more important. I appreciate the work of Chairman Amodei and Committee staff on both sides, and I will continue working to ensure this bill reflects both our security needs and our responsibility to the communities we serve.