ARIZONA – Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) released his new plan to address the broken state of America’s border and immigration system. As a senator of a border state Senator Gallego intimately understands the nuances of border security and immigration reform. The five-pillar framework, “Securing the Border and Fueling Economic Prosperity,” emphasizes the importance of strengthening border security and restoring order to our communities, while also bringing immigrants out of the shadows.
Read the full plan HERE.
Since its release, the plan has received support from local organizations and elected officials from different sides of the political spectrum.
Here’s what they are saying back in Arizona:
Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ): “@SenRubenGallego is right. Our border and immigration system need to be fixed, and these are the kinds of ideas to get it done. As border state senators, we’ve both seen these problems up close and know Arizonans want them solved. What we need is more folks in Washington willing to do something about it.”
Mayor Jorge Maldonado, Nogales, Arizona: “Senator Gallego’s immigration plan directly addresses the realities of Nogales. As a border city, we understand the critical balance between robust security and the economic vitality provided by our immigrant neighbors. His plan recognizes that security and economic growth are not mutually exclusive; they are intertwined. This is the kind of forward-thinking leadership we need.”
Mayor Nieves Riedel, San Luis, Arizona: “I am proud to support Senator Ruben Gallego’s immigration plan. This plan offers a thoughtful, pragmatic approach that not only ensures stronger border security but also provides pathways for those who contribute to our communities and economy. In a city like ours, where families cross the border every day, it’s essential we have policies that balance safety, opportunity, and compassion. Senator Gallego’s plan is exactly what our border communities need.”
Rudy Molera, Chair, Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors: “For too long, our immigration system has been plagued by gridlock and inefficiency. Senator Gallego’s plan offers a refreshing departure, providing a balanced and effective approach that prioritizes both border security and the fair treatment of immigrants. By investing in modern infrastructure, streamlining processing, and addressing the backlog, this proposal offers a clear path towards a more just and sustainable system. This is the kind of leadership Santa Cruz County welcomes.”
Rex Scott, Chair, Pima County Board of Supervisors: “Senator Gallego’s immigration plan is a testament to thoughtful problem-solving. As Pima County Board of Supervisors Chair, I recognize the need for long-term solutions that address the complexities of immigration. This plan’s focus on both security and humane treatment aligns with our county’s dedication to justice and sustainable community safety. It’s a pragmatic and forward-looking approach.”
Sheriff Mark Dannels, Cochise County, Arizona: “As a law enforcement officer on the front lines of the southern border, I’ve witnessed firsthand the complexities of immigration and the urgent need for a balanced approach. Senator Ruben Gallego’s immigration plan is a step in the right direction. It recognizes the necessity of robust border security to reduce chaos that has plagued border communities due to federal inaction while also addressing the humanitarian aspects of immigration reform. By proposing increased resources for Border Patrol and CBP officers, enhancing technological capabilities to combat fentanyl smuggling, and expanding legal pathways for immigrants, this plan aligns with the safety and well-being of our communities. I commend Senator Gallego for his leadership in crafting a proposal that seeks to unify our nation’s approach to immigration, ensuring both security and compassion.”
Mónica S. Villalobos, President & CEO, Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: “The Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce applauds Senator Ruben Gallego for taking meaningful steps toward fixing our nation’s broken immigration system. His proposal represents a forward-thinking and balanced approach that Arizona urgently needs. At the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, we recognize that a modernized immigration system is essential to driving economic growth, supporting small businesses, and providing a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and long-term undocumented residents contributing to the community. This plan is a strong step toward reform that benefits both our communities and our economy.”
Rob Elias, CEO & President, Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: “The Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce commends Senator Ruben Gallego for introducing a comprehensive immigration plan that thoughtfully addresses the multifaceted challenges of our border and immigration systems. Senator Gallego’s five-pillar framework strikes a necessary balance between enhancing border security and implementing humane, practical immigration reforms. By proposing increased investment in border infrastructure and personnel, alongside expanded legal immigration pathways and a structured path to citizenship for Dreamers and long-term undocumented residents, the plan offers a balanced approach that aligns with the needs of Southern Arizona’s diverse communities and businesses. By advocating for comprehensive reform, it fosters an environment where businesses can thrive and families can prosper, ensuring a brighter future for all in Southern Arizona.”
Aliento: “Aliento applauds Senator Ruben Gallego’s leadership for including a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and long-term immigrant residents in this immigration framework. For nearly 40 years, Congress has failed to deliver meaningful reform. Senator Gallego’s plan reflects a long-overdue commitment to solutions rooted in lived experience and Arizona’s realities.”
David J. Bier, Director of Immigration Studies, Cato Institue: “Sen. Gallego put out an astoundingly detailed and thoughtful immigration plan this week. If implemented, it would dramatically improve border security, make immigration legal and orderly, end Trump’s chaos, and make the United States a more prosperous country.”
See additional coverage below of Senator Gallego’s border and immigration plan:
Mike Broomhead: “What I love about this is now you’ve got a very staunch Democrat in Ruben Gallego leading the way and saying, it’s time to sit down with the Republicans that are in leadership right now, and let’s get on a pathway to getting something done. I think that is a positive sign that we might actually start getting something done.”
Senator Gallego: “This is a very realistic approach. […] We need to figure out how to pass something to bring stability to our businesses, our communities, and to these families.”
Reporter: “Senator Gallego saying Democrats have to start talking about solutions now so they aren’t starting from scratch later.”
Senator Gallego: “The next time we have controlled the House, the Senate, we need to be able pass something comprehensive and commonsense based like this.”
Univision Arizona (Phoenix, AZ):
Senator Gallego: “Trump está usando este sistema para tener estas deportaciones masivas. No tenemos una opción para decir a los votantes esto es otra manera donde podemos tener más seguridad en la frontera.”
Watch more:
- 13 On Your Side (Yuma, AZ)
- 13 News (Tucson, AZ)
- Arizona’s Family (Phoenix, AZ)
- FOX10 (Phoenix, AZ)
- 12 News (Phoenix, AZ)
- Telemundo Arizona (Phoenix, AZ)
- ABC15 (Phoenix, AZ)
KJZZ: AZ businesses react to Gallego’s immigration reform proposal
[Nick Karmia, 5/15/25]
Business leaders expressed concern over the Trump administration’s immigration policies in a virtual forum with Sen. Ruben Gallego on Thursday. Gallego used the forum to discuss his own immigration reform plan.
The number of job openings in Arizona has increased by more than 52% since 2024. And some Arizona business leaders say they won’t survive if their migrant workers are deported.
Monica Villalobos, president and CEO of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, says Arizona’s economy has long depended on migrant labor in industries like agriculture and health care.
“Even if every single eligible worker on unemployment received a job today, there would still be over 70,000 open jobs in Arizona,” Villalobos said.
KYMA: Senator Ruben Gallego hosts press call for his plan on border security and immigration reform
[Eduardo Morales, 5/15/25]
“Why not just create a responsive, reflective, work permit, that is actually answering to the needs of this economy that would encourage these men and women from around the world to apply to come here legally,” Sen. Gallego says.
KAWC: Gallego Unveils Comprehensive Border and Immigration Reform Plan
Gallego highlighted personal experience and regional insight as foundations of his approach. “I saw firsthand what it means to sacrifice, to struggle, and to fight for a better future,” he said. “We must do right by these communities.”
Trade with Mexico surpassed $20 billion in 2024, underscoring the vital economic role Arizona’s border plays, Gallego noted. However, he acknowledged the challenges local communities face due to cartel activity and inadequate resources.
Read more:
- KGUN: Senator Ruben Gallego’s bill addresses border security and legal pathways for immigrants [Craig Smith and Andrew Christiansen, 5/15/25]
- Tucson Sentinel: Gallego’s immigration blueprint would boost Border Patrol while creating pathway for Dreamers [Paul Ingram, 5/13/25]
- Yuma Sun: Gallego unveils five-pillar plan for border security, immigration reform [James Gilbert, 5/12/25]
- KTAR: Sen. Ruben Gallego unveils framework of plan for immigration reform and border security [Kevin Stone, 5/12/25]
5/16/25