Good Afternoon Starr County!
Growth in one part of Starr County does not require decline in another and visionary leaders recognize that. Recent commentary questioning my commitment to Starr County’s future relies more on opinion than fact. It paints a distorted picture of the work I have done to build bridges for the benefit of everyone in Starr County.
As president of the Starr County Industrial Foundation (SCIF), I have championed growth and investment across the entire county, not just in one city or at one port of entry. My focus has always been on attracting new investment, improving infrastructure and strengthening both ports, because I believe regional prosperity depends on all our communities thriving together. Under my leadership the SCIF has supported modernization and expansion at both bridges, recognizing that efficient ports mean more jobs and greater revenue for our entire county. We have advocated for state and federal investment in Roma’s port facilities, understanding their strategic value to international commerce and their proximity to Monterrey. We have worked closely with local, state, and federal partners to secure infrastructure and transportation funding that benefits every corner of Starr County from Rio Grande City to Roma to La Grulla.
To imply that I would favor one bridge over another ignores the reality of regional economic planning. My approach has always been based on cooperation and shared progress not turning progress into a political dividing line. Starr County’s success does not depend on choosing between Roma or Rio Grande City. It depends on both thriving and we are working hard to make sure that happens. It is also why our board includes representatives from across the county, both public and private, to ensure that economic decisions reflect collaboration, not personal interest.
When Roma developed the Las Américas Industrial Park, the SCIF actively supported the city’s state and federal outreach, aligning county priorities with Roma’s logistical goals. Similarly, Rio Grande City’s trade and infrastructure improvements have benefited from the same kind of coordinated planning and advocacy.
It is not surprising that during election time, some would twist professional affiliations to create division. The claim that my leadership represents a “conflict of interest” is a politically motivated attempt to discredit the progress we have made together. My partnerships with business leaders, elected officials, and community stakeholders are not conflicts, they are exactly how progress happens in small, interconnected areas like ours.
The suggestion that any community’s progress is at risk because of “political overlap” minimizes my integrity and reinforces divisions between cities that share the same economic destiny. Development in either Roma or Rio Grande City is not a threat to each other, but an asset that strengthens Starr County’s position as a unified trade corridor. This growth has been the goal we have long pursued through collaboration at every level of government. The tangible results of our efforts have been possible because of your trust and are based on fairness and collaboration.
As the campaign rhetoric intensifies, I ask voters to look beyond rumor and recognize the truths that have been proven through years of hard work and public service.
Editor's Note: The above commentary was provided by Starr County Judge candidate Rose Benavidez. The commentary first appeared on the candidate's social media pages.
