States’ rights make a comeback as Republicans rush to defy Washington

Governor Greg Abbott signs bills to strengthen Texas border security including deployment of a floating barrier in the Rio Grande. Photograph: Bob Daemmrich/Zuma Press Wire/Shutterstock

The message was blunt: “Texas will see you in court, Mr President.”

The words of defiance came from Greg Abbott, the governor of Texas, making clear that he would not comply with a justice department request to remove floating barriers in the Rio Grande. And Abbott is not the only Republican governor in open revolt against Washington.