Rep. Vargas Gets Buy-In from the U.S. Department of State on Importance of Funding Calexico Port of Entry
WASHINGTON, DC (May 20, 2014) –As a member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-51) attended today’s hearing on “The Future of U.S.–Mexico Relations.” During the hearing, he discussed the importance of funding the Calexico Port of Entry infrastructure project with U.S. Department of State Assistant Secretary Roberta Jacobson. Rep. Vargas released the following statement after the Committee hearing:
“I was extremely pleased that Assistant Secretary Roberta Jacobson not only acknowledged the importance of the Calexico Port of Entry, but was hopeful that the project would get underway quickly. Her enthusiasm for the project showed that the U.S. Department of State understands the vital role our borders play in the safety and economic viability of our country.
“The current antiquated Calexico Port of Entry not only drains our economy, but also creates security inefficiencies. Investing in this crucial border infrastructure project will create jobs, boost the nation’s economy and facilitate efficient, financially lucrative trade with Mexico. Modernizing and expanding the Calexico Port of Entry will result in a border crossing equipped to handle the ever-growing needs of the binational region.”
Vargas represents California’s 51st Congressional District which includes the southern portion of San Diego County, all of Imperial County and California’s entire US/Mexico border. Vargas is currently serving his first term in Congress. He represented the 40th California State Senate District from 2010-2012, the 79th California State Assembly District from 2000 – 2006 and served on the San Diego City Council from 1993 – 2000.
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