Texas Governor Greg Abbott is not only focused on addressing illegal immigration at the southern border but also on preventing individuals who have crossed the border from entering Texas through other states.
Abbott informed NewsNation that there are individuals who cross the border from Mexico into New Mexico and immediately into El Paso, which is a matter that needs to be addressed.
Governor Abbott intends to erect a border fence separating the two states, taking inspiration from the razor wire barriers already in place along the Mexican border in Eagle Pass, Texas. These border barriers , including the wire, were implemented as part of Abbott’s Operation Lone Star. However, they have encountered legal  challenges in court as the Biden administration contends that Abbott is exceeding his jurisdiction.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott expressed concern about the potential consequences of reducing illegal immigration in the state. He pointed out that if Texas were successful in achieving a zero percent rate of illegal immigration, these individuals would simply find alternative routes through neighboring states like New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Abbott’s statement highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing illegal immigration that involves collaboration with other states.
According to experts, the available data suggests that immigrants commit fewer crimes than U.S. citizens. Although there is a lack of comprehensive data on the comparison of crimes committed by immigrants and citizens, the existing information supports the notion that immigrants have lower crime rates.
Border crossings have significantly decreased as a result of President Joe Biden’s efforts to discourage illegal crossings. However, Governor Abbot asserts that border crossings started to decline even before these measures were implemented, emphasizing that immigration patterns tend to fluctuate throughout the year.
Texas initiated an accelerated operation to prevent illegal entry by utilizing the guard, razor wire, and pepper ball.
According to Abbott, the solution to the larger border problem lies in the hands of a new president.
Full immigration reform falls under the purview of Congress, as outlined by the Constitution, granting them the authority to shape immigration policies. However, a bipartisan bill introduced in the Senate, aimed at implementing certain adjustments to border policies, faced failure due to former President Donald Trump’s call for Republicans to vote against it.
Abbott’s operations have also encountered local challenges. Residents living along the border have been hesitant to relinquish their land for a border barrier, which the governor acknowledges as a hindrance.
Governor Abbott emphasized the significance of addressing the “crevices” that serve as entry points for illegal immigrants. He expressed the ongoing efforts to collaborate with property owners in these areas, with the aim of gaining their support in securing the border. The ultimate objective is to effectively seal off all such locations.
We contacted the governor of New Mexico’s office regarding barriers and have yet to receive a response.
