Congressman Paul A. Gosar, who represents Arizona’s 9th district in the U.S. Congress, has expressed appreciation for Department of Homeland Security Secretary Noem’s detailed response regarding a 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,” said Congressman Gosar.
According to information provided by DHS, the Surprise site is being considered as a 500-1,500 bed processing facility intended for intake and short-term transfer of individuals placed into removal proceedings. The average stay at the facility would be three to seven days before transfer to a larger detention center. DHS also stated that ICE aims to bring such facilities online by the end of Fiscal Year 2026, depending on procurement procedures and available funding.
Secretary Noem outlined that the planned facility would comply with ICE National Detention Standards and include an on-site medical unit staffed fully. Local partners would be reimbursed for emergency services provided, and security staffing would be maintained at levels meant to protect detainees, staff members, and neighboring communities. Continued engagement with state and local stakeholders as well as congressional oversight was also promised as part of the process.
DHS noted that it cannot provide specific timelines for development or operations due to impacts from what it described as a government shutdown led by Democrats.
Gosar referenced historical context in his statement: “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.”
He continued: “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,” Gosar added.
Gosar concluded his remarks by affirming his commitment: “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.”
Paul Gosar has served in Congress since 2011 after replacing Ann Kirkpatrick as representative of Arizona’s 9th district according to GovTrack. He won reelection against Quacy Smith in 2024 with over 65% of votes cast as reported by Ballotpedia. Born in Rock Springs, Wyoming in 1958,he currently resides in Bullhead City.
The full response letter from DHS can be accessed through Congressman Gosar’s official website.
