The Texas governor, Greg Abbott, has warned that federalizing the state’s National Guard would be a severe political blunder amidst an ongoing legal battle over U.S.-Mexico border enforcement. This comes after the U.S. Supreme Court issued a ruling favoring the Biden administration, allowing federal agents to remove razor wire installed by Texas’ Operation Lone Star. Gov. Abbott, a Republican, stated that securing the border is the top priority for Americans and federalizing the National Guard would be a major political mistake that he believes President Biden will not make. He emphasized that Texas would continue to secure its border regardless.
The legal dispute centers around whether Texas has the authority to place razor wire along the border. Some Democrats, including Beto O’Rourke, have suggested nationalizing the National Guard to address the issue, but Republicans strongly oppose this idea. Gov. Abbott has consistently argued that Texas has the constitutional right to defend itself from what he views as an invasion. He is confident that Texas will ultimately be vindicated and the Constitution will be strengthened.
In addition to the razor wire dispute, the Biden administration recently demanded that Texas grant U.S. Border Patrol agents access to Shelby Park, a popular entry point into the United States. Texas had seized control of the park and denied entry to Border Patrol agents, prompting the Department of Homeland Security to intervene. Appeals courts have also ruled on other barriers set up by Texas, including a buoy barrier installed in the Rio Grande. While Texas was initially ordered to remove the buoy barrier, the case will be reheard by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.
Former President Trump weighed in on the situation, expressing support for Texas and their efforts to deter illegal immigration. He reiterated his promise to carry out significant deportations if elected and emphasized his commitment to finishing the construction of a border wall.
As the legal battle continues, Texas remains steadfast in its efforts to secure the border. Gov. Abbott believes that Texas is within its constitutional rights and is prepared to defend its position. The outcome of this dispute will have significant implications for border security and the relationship between the federal government and states.
