ALBUQUERQUE, FEBRUARY 24—The Republican Party of New Mexico seeks to present a clear picture that does not demonize Border Patrol or heighten fear in our communities following an incident on February 21, 2025, involving U.S. Border Patrol agents and a charter bus carrying Las Cruces High School students. The school bus, described as being unmarked without school decals, was stopped at a routine checkpoint on Interstate 25 in the El Paso sector. Due to its unmarked nature, agents conducted a standard immigration inspection, confirmed all passengers were legally present, and departed without incident, as reported by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
The unmarked bus was treated as any other vehicle would be under standard checkpoint procedures. Despite this, Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D- CD 2) has claimed the agents “harassed” the students and accused the border agents of being racially motivated, fueling unnecessary vilification. The students’ reported nervousness is understandable, particularly for young people encountering law enforcement unexpectedly, but it does not equate to wrongdoing by the agents, who are trained to handle such situations with care and discretion.
“Our Border Patrol agents work tirelessly to keep New Mexicans safe,” said Republican Party of New Mexico Chairwoman Amy Barela. “These officers are not to be feared. They are protectors of our communities, ensuring that our laws are upheld, and our citizens are secure. Rep. Vasquez’s reckless rhetoric demonizes law enforcement, stoking fear among our youth and undermining the trust we need in those who serve. Instead of creating division, we call on Rep. Vasquez to support the men and women who safeguard our state.”
The Republican Party of New Mexico reaffirms its commitment to strong border security and law enforcement. We urge the public to recognize the facts of this incident. Misrepresenting these efforts only hinders the safety of our communities and sows division.
