The GOP-controlled panel rejected it 26-34 along party lines, with Republicans arguing exempting 183 miles from wall authority would weaken Texas border security.
Cuellar and other opponents said Big Bend sees little migrant traffic—3,096 apprehensions in fiscal 2025, or 1.3% of the border total—and argued the administration has already cut crossings without new wall construction there.
The defeat comes after DHS this week waived environmental laws for road and barrier work in the park and after reports that two 30-foot wall segments near the state park could start this summer.
The vote leaves unresolved months of mixed federal messaging, with CBP previously signaling virtual barriers, cameras and sensors in the area while local residents, ranchers and some Republicans have opposed a physical wall.