Governor Abbott’s Defiant Move: Committing to Razor Wire Fence Expansion Despite Supreme Court Ruling

Texas Governor Greg Abbott vowed on Sunday to reinforce the controversial razor wire fencing along the state’s border, defying a recent US Supreme Court ruling allowing its removal by the Biden administration.

Joined by 13 Republican governors offering resources and troops, Abbott emphasized the success of the fencing and aquatic barriers in significantly reducing illegal crossings at Shelby Park in Eagle Pass, Texas. 

With plans to replicate this success elsewhere, Abbott asserted, “We are expanding to further areas to make sure that we expand our level of deterrence and denial of illegal entry into the United States.”

Abbott highlighted Texas’ installation of over 100 miles of razor wire fencing, stressing its importance despite the Supreme Court ruling. He credited the fencing for quelling the migrant crisis in Eagle Pass, once inundated with illegal migrants, but now experiencing a drastic reduction in crossings.

Governor Abbott Defends Border Actions

Despite criticism from Eagle Pass Mayor Rolando Salinas, who questioned Abbott’s sudden takeover of the area, the governor defended his actions, citing a significant decline in illegal crossings since assuming control.

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, supporting Abbott, echoed the sentiment that Texas has a constitutional right to protect itself from the migrant crisis. He criticized President Biden’s border policies, labeling them a failure that has adversely impacted states across the nation.

The coalition of Republican governors pledged solidarity with Texas, offering resources and troops to reinforce border security. Abbott warned of the repercussions of lax border enforcement, stressing that illegal immigration could shift to states with less stringent measures.

Nevertheless, Abbott’s strategies have faced scrutiny, as opponents argue that his approaches are putting the lives of migrants at risk, sparking controversy and debate over the impact of his policies on human safety and well-being.

Last month, allegations surfaced that Texas guards denied border agents access to a fenced-off area, resulting in the drowning of a woman and two children in the Rio Grande, though Texas officials deny these claims.