Texas Governor Invokes Right to Self-Defense Amidst Border Battle

In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing battle over immigration policies and border security, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has invoked the right to self-defense as tensions with the Biden administration reach a boiling point. This move comes on the heels of a Supreme Court decision that favored the Biden administration, allowing it to proceed with cutting razor wire along the US-Mexico border. Governor Abbott has declared the situation an “invasion” and is taking a stand based on constitutional authority.

A Supreme Court Decision Sets the Stage

The Supreme Court’s recent decision to vacate an injunction against the Biden administration’s plan to remove razor wire installed along the US-Mexico border by the state of Texas has added fuel to the fire. Governor Abbott wasted no time in responding to the ruling by invoking the right to self-defense, citing Article 1, Section 10, Clause 3 of the U.S. Constitution.

In a statement, Governor Abbott asserted, “The failure of the Biden administration to fulfill the duties imposed by Article IV section 4 has triggered Article 1, section 10, Clause 3, which reserves to this State the right of self-defense.” He continued, “For these reasons, I have already declared an invasion under Article I, section 10, Clause 3 to invoke Texas’s constitutional authority to defend and protect itself.”

Biden’s Ultimatum and Potential Federalization of Texas National Guard

As tensions escalate between Texas and the federal government, President Biden has given Governor Abbott a deadline to allow federal agents to remove the state-installed razor wire along the southern border. If Governor Abbott does not comply, President Biden could potentially federalize the Texas National Guard, effectively taking control away from the state government.

While the prospect of federalizing the Texas National Guard raises concerns, it is essential to understand that such a move is typically reserved for specific circumstances, often in response to a national emergency or to protect federal interests.

A Call to Action: Trump and Red States Rally

Former President Donald Trump has weighed in on the situation, calling for “willing states to deploy their [national guard] to Texas” to aid in protecting the border. This battle goes beyond a showdown between the federal government and Texas; it has ignited a national response.

A growing list of red states has publicly declared their support for Texas, standing in opposition to federal actions. States such as Florida, Virginia, Georgia, North Dakota, South Dakota, Tennessee, Alabama, Montana, Idaho, Utah, West Virginia, Oklahoma, Nebraska, and Louisiana have all expressed solidarity with the Lone Star State.

Since the list was initially compiled, Arkansas, Iowa, Mississippi, and Wyoming have also joined the chorus of states aligning with Texas in this border dispute. Furthermore, a joint letter signed by 25 Republican governors has been sent, affirming their support for Texas.

The Immigration Crisis and Its Costs

The root of this ongoing battle lies in the immigration crisis that has gripped the United States. Millions of migrants have entered the country, creating a situation of unprecedented proportions. It is essential to note that some NGOs, funded with taxpayer dollars, have played a role in facilitating the migration of individuals to the southern border.

Once processed at the border, migrants are resettled in communities across America, a process funded by billions of taxpayer dollars. The Office of Refugee Resettlement spent $20 billion in 2022 and 2023 on refugee resettlement, as the number of migrant encounters at the border soared to 2.5 million in 2023.

The Toll on Communities and Resources

The impact of this crisis is felt in communities that receive these migrants. Health services and other resources are stretched thin, with some institutions experiencing significant financial losses. Denver Health, for example, reported massive losses due to the high number of immigrants utilizing health services they cannot afford.

This border crisis has raised critical questions about resources, security, and the rule of law. While millions worldwide may desire to relocate to the United States, the nation’s resources and systems cannot accommodate an unrestricted influx of migrants.

A Call for Legal Immigration

Ultimately, the solution to this crisis lies in adhering to legal immigration processes. While the United States is a beacon of hope for many seeking a better life, it is vital to maintain the rule of law and protect the nation’s borders. The ongoing battle between Texas and the federal government serves as a stark reminder of the need for comprehensive immigration reform and border security measures that align with the principles of legality, fairness, and compassion.