Texas Governor Greg Abbott has characterized the influx of migrants at the state’s southern border as an “invasion.” This declaration comes as Texas officials continue to clash with the White House over the escalating border crossings along the border shared with Mexico. Eagle Pass, a border city, is among the areas witnessing a significant surge in migrants, with many reportedly originating from Venezuela and attempting to enter the United States.
Border officials in Eagle Pass have confirmed that approximately 4,000 individuals arrived at the border on a single day, although this figure is yet to be officially confirmed. At one point, the queue of migrants stretched for five miles, according to NewsNation.
Governor Abbott made his announcement on Wednesday evening via a post on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter). He stated, “I officially declared an invasion at our border because of Biden’s policies.” Abbott outlined measures being taken, including deploying the Texas National Guard, the Department of Public Safety (DPS), and local law enforcement. The state is also constructing a border wall, installing razor wire, and implementing marine barriers. Abbott added, “We are also repelling migrants.”
In addition to his social media remarks, Governor Abbott shared a letter from November 2022 addressed to President Biden, which raised similar concerns regarding the border situation. Abbott argued that the policies of the current administration were causing catastrophic consequences and asserted that Texas had no choice but to “escalate our efforts to secure the state.”
On Tuesday, Eagle Pass Mayor Rolando Salinas declared a state of emergency due to what he described as a “severe undocumented immigrant surge” into the city. Mayor Salinas explained that this declaration would enable them to seek financial resources to address the additional services needed because of the influx of undocumented immigrants.
Mayor Salinas acknowledged the strain on local resources, stating, “There has been a situation the last couple of days where we have gotten an influx of immigrants crossing through Eagle Pass. And it has taken a toll on our local resources.” He also noted that some migrants were leaving shelters and appearing on the streets, raising concerns among residents.
Governor Abbott had previously accused the Biden administration of cutting the razor wire erected by the state to deter migrant crossings. He stated, “I immediately deployed more Texas National Guard to repel illegal crossings and install more razor wire.” However, Mayor Salinas suggested that it was some migrants who had cut the wire, not federal officials.