Congressman Cloud, Corpus Christi Mayor, and City Manager weigh in on Trump’s desal promise

Congressman Cloud, Corpus Christi Mayor, and City Manager weigh in on Trump’s desal promise

KIII ABC News Corpus Christi

Bill Evans | February 27, 2026

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Coastal Bend officials are weighing in after President Trump signaled potential federal support for water infrastructure during his visit to the Port of Corpus Christi, telling 3NEWS Mike Gillaspia “You have a very big ask. I have to say it’s a big ask. This is called a serious money ask, and I’m going to get that thing approved for you guys.”

3NEWS reached out to local leaders in regards to this “Serious money ask”. Congressman Michael Cloud, Mayor Paulette Guajardo, and City Manager Peter Zanoni all responded with the following:

Congressman Michael Cloud:

“I’m grateful to President Trump for making the trip to Corpus Christi to celebrate. We’ve been working closely with the White House to tackle the serious water challenges facing our district, especially here in Corpus Christi. I appreciate the President stepping up, recognizing how critical this issue is, and committing to help us get it solved for our communities and our economy.”

Mayor Paulette Guajardo:

“We are very encouraged by the President’s remarks regarding water and our Inner Harbor desalination project. Prior to his visit, we coordinated with Congressman Michael Cloud who, with the support of our Senators, requested significant federal investment to advance our Inner Harbor desalination project.

The President’s reference to a ‘big money ask’ aligns with the level of federal partnership we have been pursuing for some time now, to secure our region’s long-term water supply.

We look forward to continuing to work with the Administration and our delegation to get it done.”

City Manager Peter Zanoni:

“Upon President Trump’s decision to travel to Corpus Christi, United States Congressman Cloud indicated he would have a personal opportunity to highlight our request for water funding. The City provided a request to Congressman Cloud to lessen the cost of the Corpus Christi Inner Harbor Desalination Water Project. Congressman Cloud conveyed this during a meeting with President Trump and our senators. The City commends Congressman Cloud for his leadership and for effectively communicating the critical importance of financial assistance for the Inner Harbor Project. We are deeply appreciative of the President’s commitment to providing the essential water funding required to see this project through to completion.

We are incredibly thankful for President Trump and Congressman Cloud who recognize that the drought that is impacting South Texas impacts the entire state and nation. The consequences of our water crisis are far-reaching and we must share the responsibility for funding a project of this magnitude. This federal funding is vital to ensuring we have a sustainable water supply without placing an undue financial burden on our local families and businesses.”

This is a developing story. We will provide updates as more information becomes available.