What’s next for CBP’s $1.7 billion Big Bend border project?

Cornered by Big Bend backlash, Texas Republicans tread carefully around Trump

By Alejandro Serrano, The Texas Tribune August 21, 2026 For over a generation, Texas Republicans have owned the politics of the southern border. Now the Trump administration’s latest border project has them cornered, stuck between constituents outraged over federal plans to carve roads and barriers through Big Bend and a president none of them want…

The Big Bend Backlash to the Border Wall

Plus: FBI agents seize devices from Eric Swalwell and search his home, more than 150 Polymarket wallets may be betting on military secrets, and an early Happy National Cuban Sandwich Day. - Start a free trial today for full access.

Texas Republicans tread carefully on Big Bend border plans

Most of the state’s GOP leaders have hedged on the White House's plans for the region, welcoming a construction pause without breaking from a president they're loath to cross.

What’s next for CBP’s $1.7 billion Big Bend border project?

CBP is shifting away from planned barriers in parts of Big Bend and considering surveillance technology, but the agency says its plans are not final.