Washington, DC -- Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-09) issued the following statement after receiving a detailed response from the Department of Homeland Security to his recent letter regarding the proposed ICE processing facility in Surprise, Arizona:

“I want to thank Secretary Noem for her prompt, direct, and transparent response to each of the questions I raised regarding the proposed ICE processing site in my district in Surprise, Arizona.  At a time when our nation faces unprecedented challenges from illegal immigration, largely caused by the previous administration’s open-border policies, I appreciate Secretary Noem’s willingness to work collaboratively with my office to ensure that this project is carried out responsibly, securely, and with full consideration for local communities.

According to the response, the Surprise site is under consideration to serve as a 500-1,500 bed processing facility used for intake and short-term transfer of illegals placed into removal proceedings.  The average length of stay would generally be three to seven days before transfer to a larger detention center.  DHS further indicated that ICE anticipates onboarding such facilities by the end of Fiscal Year 2026, subject to the procurement process and available funding.

Secretary Noem’s response outlined that the facility would adhere to ICE National Detention Standards, include a fully staffed on-site medical unit, reimburse local partners for emergency services, and maintain robust security staffing to ensure the safety of detainees, personnel, and surrounding communities.  DHS is also committed to continued engagement with state and local stakeholders and congressional oversight as the project advances.

However, DHS made clear that the Democrats’ current government shutdown is directly impacting its ability to provide specific timelines for development and operational commencement.

Nearly a century ago, Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis warned that when a government fails to uphold the law, it “breeds contempt for law” and “invites anarchy.” His words remain relevant today.  When federal immigration law is ignored, unfunded, or obstructed for political gain, the result is disorder at our border and danger in our communities.  The American people deserve a federal government that enforces the law consistently and without apology.

Unfortunately, Democrats’ partisan political stunts are once again interfering with the core mission of protecting the American people. The ongoing shutdown is preventing DHS from establishing a realistic and transparent timetable for this critical public safety project.  Every day Democrats continue this reckless obstruction they delay border security efforts and put American lives at risk.

Border security is national security.  Democrats must end their political games, reopen the government immediately, and allow DHS and ICE to do their jobs.  The safety of Arizona communities – and all Americans – cannot be held hostage to partisan theatrics.

I will continue to work closely with Secretary Noem, ICE officials and local stakeholders to ensure transparency, accountability, and the safety of Arizona residents as this project moves forward,” concluded Congressman Paul Gosar.

Click here to read a copy of the response letter from DHS.