Gov. Abbott declares invasion at southern border, orders increased efforts against illegal immigration

SAN ANTONIO (KTSA News) — Texas Governor Greg Abbott is officially declaring an invasion of illegal immigrants entering the state from Mexico and other countries along the southern border.

In a letter sent Wednesday, Governor Abbott directed the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas Military Department (TMD) to expand what he is describing as unprecedented efforts to stop illegal immigration.

“Until Congress acts or the Biden Administration does its constitutionally required job, Texas Guardsmen and Troopers must bear the burden of securing the border,” reads the letter. “You must continue to keep Texans and Americans safe and protect against an invasion of the southern border. I order you to use all resources and tools available to repel immigrants from attempting to cross illegally, arrest those who cross illegally and return them to the border, and arrest criminals who violate Texas law.”

The letter was sent directly to DPS Director Steve McCraw and TMD Adjutant General Thomas Suelzer.

Governor Abbott is invoking the Invasion Clauses of the U.S. and Texas Constitutions in ordering the increased efforts against illegal immigration.  Actions moving forward are to include the construction of border walls in numerous counties, the deployment of the National Guard to monitor and repel immigrants crossing the border illegally, and employing Texas DPS personnel to arrest illegal immigrants when criminal activity is found.

Other actions will include the designation of Mexican drug cartels as terrorist organizations.

You can read Governor Abbott’s letter to the Texas DPS and Texas Military Department by clicking here.