Today’s video comes to you from Puerto Palomas, Chihuahua, Mexico—a town that sits directly across from Columbus, New Mexico, forever linked to one of the most dramatic moments in U.S.-Mexico history.
In 1916, revolutionary leader Pancho Villa launched his infamous raid across this very border, striking Columbus and forever changing U.S.-Mexican relations. A century later, the spirit of resilience and interconnection between these two towns endures.
I wanted to come here, not as a policy analyst or former national security advisor, but as a border town girl. This is the land that shaped me. It’s where my family’s story begins, where cultures meet over lunch and laughter, where crossing a bridge isn’t an act of defiance—it’s daily life.
As I watch the Trump administration posture toward Mexico again, talking about “bombing cartels” and breaking diplomatic norms in their approach to Venezuela, I think it’s crucial to remember the humanity on this side of the border. Life here isn’t chaos. It’s community. It’s music, color, and connection.
From The Pink Store, a vibrant landmark filled with local art and food, to conversations with locals and Americans who call the border home, this trip reminded me why storytelling from the ground matters. Borders aren’t just lines; they’re living, breathing histories.
🎥 Watch the video, and see the truth of the border for yourself.
Tomorrow, I’ll be coming to you live from a special event on the border of El Paso, Texas, and Juárez, Mexico. Bishop Mark J. Seitz of the Catholic Diocese of El Paso will be celebrating the annual Border Mass, a powerful tradition of faith, unity, and compassion.
Bishop Seitz recently returned from Rome, where he met with Pope Leo XIV and emphasized the importance of advocating for migrants and sharing their incredible stories and journeys from the border.
Despite President Trump’s ongoing militarization of the border, which has made gatherings like this more difficult, the tradition endures.Hope you’ll tune in for this special event.
P.S. Happy Halloween from Ringo, Stevie and myself!
Stay safe and be well,
Olivia
