I don’t see how this has much to do with politics, and more to do with economic competition. If anything, progressives are against desalination because of the brine pollution. These desalination plants are foremost for industrial use. The city of Corpus Christi and the port authority are trying to compete with Houston in attracting business. Sometime in the future, it may become important for general consumer use because of droughts. Historically, before the Port of Houston became the most prominent port, due to Buffalo Bayou dredged by state, and federal funds, the Port of Corpus Christi was the leading Texas port until a major hurricane hit it.