Gov. Abbott Signs Historic Border Security Law: Democrats Cry Racism

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott has enacted a substantial series of border security measures, signing three pivotal laws during Special Session #3 and Special Session #4 of the 88th Texas Legislature at the Texas border wall in Brownsville. These laws mark a critical stride in fortifying Texas’ border defenses, combatting human smuggling, deterring illegal border crossings, and safeguarding the lives and property of Texans by allocating funds for the ongoing construction of Texas’ border wall.

Addressing the pressing issue, Governor Abbott stated, “Four years ago, the United States experienced the lowest count of illegal border crossings in decades, thanks to four policies implemented by the Trump Administration. However, President Biden's reversal of these policies and lack of action against illegal immigration has forced Texas to fend for itself. Today, I sign three laws aimed at safeguarding Texas and the nation from President Biden’s border negligence. These measures are designed to stem the tide of unlawful entry into Texas, allocate additional resources for border wall construction, and crack down on human smuggling.”

The Governor was joined at the signing ceremony by Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, National Border Patrol Council (NBPC) President Brandon Judd, Adjutant General of Texas Major General Thomas Suelzer, Texas Border Czar Mike Banks, along with several senators, representatives, and other border officials.

Lieutenant Governor Patrick emphasized, “Securing the southern border has remained a paramount focus since my election in 2006. Texas has allocated historic levels of funding for border security during my tenure, underscoring the urgent need for action in the face of the Biden administration’s denial and negligence. The signing of these three bills reaffirms our commitment to curbing illegal immigration and fortifying our southern border.”

Brandon Judd, President of NBPC, expressed gratitude for Governor Abbott's leadership, citing how his actions have already saved lives and are poised to save thousands more. Judd commended the Governor for refusing to yield to radical ideologies, prioritizing the safety of Texans and upholding the rule of law.

Major General Thomas Suelzer of the Texas National Guard highlighted their active engagement along the border, mentioning the deployment of various measures to enhance security. He thanked the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and legislators for providing necessary resources to ensure the safety of Texans.

Border Czar Mike Banks, a former Border Patrol agent, lauded Governor Abbott for defending Texas and the nation in the face of President Biden's inaction. Banks emphasized that the bills signed will facilitate the continuation of border wall construction, empower law enforcement, and strengthen penalties against smuggling and related criminal activities.

The bills signed include Senate Bill 4 from Special Session #3 (Flores/Guillen), imposing mandatory minimum prison sentences for smuggling and enhancing penalties for stash house operations. Senate Bill 3 from Special Session #4 (Huffman/Jetton) appropriates $1.54 billion for border security operations and barrier infrastructure. Senate Bill 4 from Special Session #4 (Perry/Spiller) creates offenses for illegal entry and reentry into Texas, along with provisions safeguarding officials involved in enforcing these laws.

Earlier in June, Governor Abbott signed six border security laws during the 88th Regular Legislative Session, furthering Texas’ efforts to combat the surge in illegal immigration, weapons trafficking, and drug influx from Mexico, solidifying the state's commitment to border protection.

Texas Democrats responded with unhinged outrage.  Here's Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa:  

“Texas Republican-backed extremist groups with ties to white supremacists ordered Greg Abbott to add the most anti-migrant and unconstitutional border charges to the special legislative sessions agenda earlier this year. And today, Greg Abbott proudly signed legislation that will allow the Texas DPS to imprison Black and Brown migrants based on the color of their skin and perceived citizenship status.

“The events of the last two weeks lay bare that the MAGA Republican Party of today is dominated by white supremacists who continue to poison our society with extreme racist ideologies and have no business leading a state with some of the largest communities of color in the nation. Meanwhile, Texas Democrats from Austin to Washington are hyper-focused on actually working to address our issues at the southern border with data-driven, humane proposals. I want to be crystal clear: SB 4 was not designed to keep our communities safe – its sole purpose is to allow DPS to further patrol majority Black and Brown neighborhoods and throw people in jail for Fox News soundbites.”