Texas is embarking on a battle with the Biden administration over the management of its southern border. Texas Governor, Greg Abbott, alleges that the administration has not fulfilled its duty to enforce immigration laws and secure the border, leading the state to take matters into its own hands. The state argues that it has the constitutional right to self-defense under Article 1, Section 10, granting states the power to protect themselves. With over 6 million individuals crossing the southern border and Governor Abbott having transported approximately 100,000 migrants to sanctuary cities, Texas views this as an invasion. The state asserts that it possesses the authority to defend itself against an invasion and safeguard its statehood.
Texas' strong stance on border security has historical foundations. It only joined the union with the promise that the federal government would protect its border. Having experienced border conflicts and wars throughout its history, Texas believes that the law obliges the federal government to fulfill its responsibility. Consequently, Governor Abbott believes that Texas is justified in taking action to counter the invasion-like situation at its southern border.
