Context:

Senator John Cornyn plans to introduce a bill to permanently enshrine President Trump's executive order that renamed the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge in Texas after Jocelyn Nungaray, a 12-year-old girl who was tragically killed. The renaming aims to honor her memory and is intended to prevent future administrations from easily changing the name. Jocelyn Nungaray was allegedly murdered by two illegal immigrants, which became a significant issue during the 2024 presidential election. The suspects, Franklin Pena and Johan Martinez-Rangel, are alleged members of the Tren de Aragua gang and face capital murder charges. The renaming of the refuge underscores Nungaray's love for animals and nature, as it is located near her hometown of Houston.

Dive Deeper:

• Senator John Cornyn is advocating for a bill that would solidify the renaming of the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge to the Jocelyn Nungaray National Wildlife Refuge, following President Trump's executive order. This legislative move is designed to make it more challenging for future administrations to alter the refuge's name, thus preserving the memory of Jocelyn Nungaray.

• Jocelyn Nungaray, a 12-year-old girl from Houston, was brutally killed in June 2024 by two alleged illegal immigrants, Franklin Pena and Johan Martinez-Rangel, suspected members of the Tren de Aragua gang. Her death has been used as a focal point in debates on immigration and crime during the 2024 presidential election.

• The Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge, now named in honor of Jocelyn, is a 39,000-acre sanctuary located along the Texas Gulf Coast. The renaming highlights her passion for animals and nature, which was a significant part of her life.

• During a joint address to Congress, President Trump announced the renaming of the refuge, emphasizing Jocelyn's love for nature and animals. This decision was celebrated in a ceremony attended by various officials, including Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.

• Cornyn's bill, co-sponsored by Congressman Brian Babin, aims to protect the sanctuary's new name and ensure that Jocelyn Nungaray's legacy endures. This legislative effort reflects broader discussions on immigration policies and their societal impacts, particularly concerning crime involving illegal immigrants.