Inside Valley Politics: Redistricting South Texas 

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — This week, redistricting dominated the political conversation in South Texas. Inside Valley Politics takes a closer look at this hot-button issue, with Frank McCaffrey exploring it from all angles and speaking with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. 

Washington, D.C. correspondent Ryan Bell kicks off the show by examining why the majority of Texas Democrats are refusing to return to Austin. Their absence is a strategic move to block a vote that would redraw the state's congressional maps. In response, Governor Greg Abbott has called for the absent lawmakers to be removed from office and has directed Texas law enforcement to carry out civil arrests. 

State Representative Henry Cuellar (D-28th District) criticized Republicans for focusing on what he called “partisan redistricting” instead of addressing the needs of Central Texas flood victims. In contrast, a Republican state senator defended the redistricting effort, stating, “The truth is Texas has changed and become redder, more Republican, and right now the current congressional lines don’t reflect that.” 

Republican State Representative Janie Lopez echoed that sentiment, arguing that Democrats are failing in their responsibilities by blocking the vote. “It’s a move that ultimately hurts those affected by the Central Texas floods,” she said. Lopez expressed full support for Governor Abbott’s efforts to locate and return the absent lawmakers. 

Later in the program, McCaffery sits down with Hidalgo County GOP Chair Robert Cantu to discuss the impact the proposed redistricting may have on the Rio Grande Valley. “I think it's going to increase the chances of us winning in 2028,” Cantu said. “We could have three Republicans down here representing us in Congress.” 

The conversation shifts to Tejano music star Bobby Pulido’s bid to challenge Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz in District 15. Cantu acknowledged Pulido’s local popularity but questioned his qualifications. “Bobby Pulido is well known—he’s from Edinburg,” Cantu said. “But at the end of the day, when we talk about policy and somebody having that kind of experience in Congress, Monica De La Cruz wins easily.” 

The show concludes with Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr., who joins McCaffery in the studio to discuss the economic implications of Starbase's recent incorporation as a city. They also touch on regional infrastructure projects and the issue of water access. 

Catch all these stories and more on Inside Valley Politics—airing Sunday at 6:30 a.m. on NBC 23 and 10:30 p.m. on CBS 4.