A U.S. congressman has proposed ending the border tower program, which uses high-tech surveillance systems along the southern border. Delia Ramirez, a Democratic representative from Illinois and a member of the Homeland Security Committee, plans to introduce legislation to terminate the program. Her decision follows an investigative report by MIT Technology Review titled "Dying on Camera," which found that nearly one in four deaths in the border region between 2015 and early 2026 occurred within the range of these surveillance towers. Ramirez cited the report's findings, which indicated that nearly 1,100 people died within the range of the expensive tower system during that time period, stating that the towers "just don't work." The U.S. government invested billions of dollars in constructing a "virtual wall" of surveillance towers along the southern border. This system was intended to help detect and apprehend unauthorized border crossers and, in doing so, prevent deaths by making it easier to locate and assist individuals in distress. However, the MIT Technology Review investigation revealed that more than 1,000 people moved through areas monitored by these towers without being detected—and many of them died as a result. The report has sparked debate about the effectiveness of high-tech border security measures. Critics argue that the towers have failed to fulfill their intended purpose, while supporters maintain that they are one part of a broader strategy to secure the border. The controversy has led to calls for a deeper examination of the technology and its consequences. A roundtable discussion is scheduled for September 28 to explore the shortcomings of border surveillance technology and to share the stories of those who lost their lives in the borderlands. The event aims to bring together experts, lawmakers, and advocates to discuss alternatives and improvements to current border security practices.