HARLINGEN — As the kickoff to the RGV Legislative Tour 2017 was winding down, the television in the lobby of Texas Regional Bank showed President-elect Donald Trump’s plane departing live for his inauguration in Washington.
The image on that TV screen yesterday morning symbolized the uncertainty in the Rio Grande Valley when it comes to a Trump presidency.
Given his vows to renegotiate NAFTA and build a border wall, many fear it could negatively impact cross-border trade and thus the region’s economy.
The biennial RGV Legislative Tour from Jan. 26-29 brings lawmakers from Austin to South Texas to see first-hand the issues facing the Valley.
“What we hope that they capture from their visit is a better understanding of how the economics here impact the state of Texas,” said Sergio Contreras, president and CEO of the Rio Grande Valley Partnership, which sponsors the tour. “In particular, it also showcases that we are an economic engine for the state of Texas as well,” he said.
Contreras said 15 Austin lawmakers have committed to the three-day tour, and another eight have promised to send a staff member.
He said he hopes to have 50 commitments by the three-day tour’s opening day.
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