By Salma El-Sakka
Steve Bannon, a prominent MAGA figure, claimed Wednesday that a flood of migrants is already heading toward the U.S. southern border following Democratic victories in Texas midterm elections.
Bannon's Claims on War Room
On his War Room podcast, Bannon and guest Todd Bensman, an immigration expert at the Heritage Foundation, asserted that caravans are forming in Central America in anticipation of relaxed border enforcement.
Democratic Victories in Texas
The claims came less than 24 hours after Democrat James Talarico flipped a state Senate seat and Gina Hinojosa became the first Latina elected governor in Texas, a traditionally Republican stronghold.
Migrant Caravans Reported
Bannon cited news reports, including from The Tico Times, that dozens of Hondurans left for the U.S. on Tuesday, hoping the midterms would weaken President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown. One migrant, Jimena Morazán, 47, told the outlet that her group was taking the risk because "Trump is on his way out in these elections." The Latin Times reported this was the third significant organized movement of Hondurans from San Pedro Sula since early fall.
Border Security Data
However, U.S. Customs and Border Protection reported nearly 140,000 encounters in the 2026 fiscal year and celebrated 16 consecutive months of zero releases at the border.
Democratic Leaders' Border Stance
Both Hinojosa and Talarico have pledged to secure the border but criticized aggressive tactics used under Trump and Governor Greg Abbott. Hinojosa previously stated she would not allow Texas to be a staging ground for operations that "terrorize families," while Talarico advocated for a border "like a front porch — it should have a welcome mat out front and a lock on the door."
Bannon's Counterargument
Bannon countered with his own "welcome mat" metaphor, telling The Independent that "the invaders know when Democrats take control, the welcome mat is out."
Official Response Pending
The Department of Homeland Security has been contacted for comment.
