Transcript: Rep. Tony Gonzales Discusses Immigration and Policy on "Face the Nation"
Texas Congressman Tony Gonzales engaged in a candid discussion about immigration on February 8, 2026, during an interview that aired on national television.
"Good morning, Margaret," Gonzales greeted the host, setting the stage for a deep dive into pressing border issues.
With a focus on the impending expiration of homeland security funding, Gonzales acknowledged the urgency of the situation. "Right," he confirmed when asked about the standoff in the Senate over funding reforms.
Brennan outlined the Democrats' demands, which included requiring judicial warrants for entering private property and ensuring federal agents wear identifiable uniforms. "Are you on board with any of these demands?" she pressed.
Gonzales responded thoughtfully, "We need to work through it. Some things make sense; others do not." He emphasized that amnesty for illegal immigrants would not be part of any deal, nor would he support measures that hinder law enforcement's ability to protect themselves.
He highlighted the importance of body cameras for law enforcement, stating, "I was really encouraged to see Secretary Noem and Tom Homan execute that." Communication between ICE and local communities was another key point for Gonzales, who suggested that liaisons could facilitate better understanding and cooperation.
When discussing warrants, Gonzales expressed concern over judicial interference. "A judge should not hold up everything," he argued, advocating for administrative warrants as a necessary tool for law enforcement.
Brennan challenged him on this stance, referencing the Trump administration's changes to warrant usage. Gonzales maintained that if law enforcement has probable cause, they should act without judicial delay. "If we allow judges to be the roadblock, it doesn't keep our community safe," he asserted.
The conversation shifted to the upcoming Homeland Security Committee hearing where Gonzales would question agency heads about training and use of force. He condemned the events in Minneapolis, emphasizing the need for collaboration between local and federal authorities.
"We don't want to see local communities not work with federal government," he stated firmly.
As the discussion continued, Gonzales reflected on polling data indicating public skepticism regarding the president's deportation policies. He noted a shift in focus towards deporting convicted criminals rather than targeting innocent individuals. "If we go down that route, we will be successful," he said, advocating for a more humane approach to enforcement.
Addressing recent electoral shifts in Texas, Gonzales acknowledged concerns among Latino voters. "People are anxious," he remarked, attributing some of this anxiety to perceptions of deportation policies.
He pointed out that effective communication is crucial for maintaining support within communities. "We have a new ICE facility built in San Antonio," he explained, highlighting its potential economic benefits while acknowledging community concerns.
As the interview progressed, Gonzales defended the administration's approach to family detentions, emphasizing the need for lawful enforcement while expressing empathy for affected families. "We can be compassionate and enforce our laws," he stated.
Finally, the conversation turned to a controversial video posted by the president. Gonzales called for accountability but emphasized that the focus should remain on national safety and economic stability. "How do we make sure we're safe? How do we make sure our economy is thriving?" he concluded.
With a commitment to addressing these complex issues head-on, Gonzales left viewers with a clear understanding of his stance on immigration and law enforcement policy.
