Rep. Paul Gosar requests info on proposed ICE facility in Surprise

The Republican congressman has sent Secretary Kristi Noem a list of questions about a possible immigration detention center in Arizona.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

U.S. Rep. Paul Gosar, R-District 9, has sent Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem a list of questions regarding a possible immigration detention facility in Surprise, Arizona. County records show Immigration and Customs Enforcement has spent $70 million on a large warehouse near Dysart Road and Cactus Road, and local residents have protested the facility. Gosar, whose district encompasses parts of the West Valley, is seeking answers from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on the agency's plans for the building.

Why it matters

The potential construction of an ICE detention facility in Surprise has raised concerns among local residents about issues like infrastructure capacity, traffic, emergency services, environmental impacts, and public safety. Gosar, who supports ICE and the Trump administration's immigration enforcement efforts, says these "common-sense expectations of transparency, planning, and accountability" deserve serious consideration.

The details

In a letter to Secretary Noem, Gosar listed several questions he would like DHS to answer regarding the agency's timeline for developing the building, security measures being put in place, and who would be transporting detainees to the facility. The congressman has asked DHS to provide a written response within 10 business days.

  • On February 4, 2026, Rep. Paul Gosar sent a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

The players

Rep. Paul Gosar

A Republican U.S. Congressman representing Arizona's 9th district, which encompasses parts of the West Valley including Surprise.

Kristi Noem

The current Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency that is reportedly planning to develop a large detention facility in Surprise, Arizona.

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What’s next

DHS has 10 business days to provide a written response to the questions raised by Rep. Gosar regarding the proposed ICE facility in Surprise.

The takeaway

This case highlights the tensions that can arise when federal immigration enforcement agencies seek to establish new facilities in local communities. While Rep. Gosar supports ICE's mission, he is pressing for transparency and accountability around the potential impacts on Surprise residents.