Immigration Advocates Speak Out from Dilley Detention Facility

Acosta interviews attorney and strategist on conditions at Texas facility

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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In a live video report from the Dilley Detention Facility in Texas, CNN anchor Jim Acosta interviews immigration attorney Chris Godshall-Bennett and Democratic strategist Maria Cardona about the conditions and experiences of detainees at the facility.

Why it matters

The Dilley Detention Facility has faced ongoing scrutiny over its treatment of immigrant detainees, many of whom are asylum seekers. Acosta's interviews provide firsthand accounts from advocates working to support and defend the rights of those held at the facility.

The details

Acosta speaks with Godshall-Bennett, an attorney representing detainees at Dilley, and Cardona, a Democratic strategist and commentator, about the challenges faced by immigrants held at the facility. They discuss issues like limited access to legal counsel, inadequate medical care, and the psychological toll of prolonged detention.

  • Acosta's live video report was broadcast on February 25, 2026.

The players

Jim Acosta

A CNN anchor reporting live from the Dilley Detention Facility.

Chris Godshall-Bennett

An immigration attorney representing detainees at the Dilley Detention Facility.

Maria Cardona

A Democratic strategist and commentator speaking about the conditions at the Dilley Detention Facility.

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What they’re saying

“Don't give into the lies. Don't give into fear. Hold on to the truth. And hope.”

— Jim Acosta (substack.com)

The takeaway

Acosta's interviews with Godshall-Bennett and Cardona shed light on the ongoing challenges and human rights concerns at the Dilley Detention Facility, underscoring the need for continued advocacy and reform efforts to protect the rights and dignity of immigrant detainees.