Texas is increasing its border security measures.
On Friday, Governor Gregg Abbott made an announcement regarding the latest developments in border security measures. In an effort to combat the increasing number of illegal border crossings, the state has taken proactive steps to enhance its floating marine barrier in the Rio Grande River.
Additionally, more razor wire has been installed in Eagle Pass as part of the ongoing Operation Lone Star. These measures are in anticipation of potential challenges prior to President-elect Donald Trump’s return to office.
Governor Abbott asserted that the state has assumed responsibility for addressing the issue since the federal government has declined to secure the border and protect Americans from criminal undocumented individuals during President Joe Biden’s tenure.
In a statement released on Friday, Governor Abbott emphasized that the apprehension or arrest of each individual and the seizure of every ounce of drugs signifies the prevention of their entry into communities across Texas and the nation.
These actions are crucial in light of the open border policies that would have otherwise allowed these substances to reach their intended destinations.
The Biden administration had previously urged Texas to dismantle the floating border wall, which initially commenced construction in June 2023, coinciding with the start of Operation Lone Star. In July of this year, the complete Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the barrier’s presence following a lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice, seeking its removal.
According to Governor Abbott, Operation Lone Star has been successful in reducing illegal crossings into Texas by 86%. Moreover, this operation has led to the arrest of over 48,000 criminals and the seizure of more than 553 million lethal doses of fentanyl.
According to Abbott, a decrease in illegal crossings into Texas would result in a reduction in the number of migrants being transported to sanctuary cities.
Since April 2022, more than 119,000 illegal migrants have been transported to six different sanctuary cities in Texas.