Opinion Article – Screenshots: NBC News and Greg Abbott YouTube Videos – Texas Governor Greg Abbott, in a statement on Wednesday, accused President Joe Biden of violating his constitutional duty to enforce federal immigration laws and protect the states. Abbott asserted that Texas has the right to defend itself against the “invasion” of illegal immigrants crossing the border, invoking a state “right to self-defense” and laying out his Constitutional authority to do so. He also referred to a Supreme Court ruling that allows federal agents to remove concertina wire installed by Texas at the border, saying that Texas will not back down despite this ruling. Abbott stated that the Founding Fathers foresaw that states should not be left to the mercy of a lawless president who does nothing to stop external threats like cartels smuggling millions of illegal immigrants across the border, emphasizing Texas’ right to self-defense.
Abbott and the Texas National Guard asserted that they will “hold the line” against the federal government and remain resolute in their actions to secure the border, preserve the rule of law, and protect the sovereignty of the state. They further announced that they will begin installing razor wire on private property as part of their proactive measures to secure the southern border. This comes after the Supreme Court ruling allowing federal agents to cut through or remove the razor wire used to defend Texas’ border. Abbott, however, appears undeterred and is ignoring the ruling, and federal agents have already been seen cutting the wire in several past instances.
The ongoing razor wire dispute reflects the ongoing conflict between the state and federal government, with each side asserting their right to defend their actions and positions. Abbott seems prepared to continue resisting federal intervention and protecting Texas’ interests.
