Governor Greg Abbott, alongside the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas National Guard, continued efforts in 2024 under Operation Lone Star to secure the state's border. Since its inception, the operation has reportedly reduced illegal border crossings by 87%.
"Texas has demonstrated an unwavering resolve in securing our southern border and protecting Texans since 2021," stated Governor Abbott. He emphasized the state's initiatives, including deploying personnel and constructing barriers, as a national model for border security.
In February, Governor Abbott hosted former President Donald J. Trump in Eagle Pass for a briefing on Texas' border operations. "The United States of America is dealing with more deadly consequences than we have in our entire lifetime because of President Biden’s open border policies," said Abbott. Trump praised Texas' efforts: "Texas is very secure, and it is going to be even more secure by the time you finish."
Earlier this year, Abbott joined forces with 13 other governors at a press conference in Eagle Pass to express solidarity against federal immigration policies. The governors present included Sarah Huckabee Sanders of Arkansas and Brian Kemp of Georgia.
In May, Abbott inaugurated a new military base in Eagle Pass for Texas National Guard soldiers involved in Operation Lone Star. "Over the past two years, illegal immigration has gone down in the state of Texas by 72%," he noted.
June saw the launch of Texas' 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List aimed at capturing repeat offenders. "Texas is a law-and-order state," declared Abbott.
In July, following a favorable ruling from the U.S. Court of Appeals for maintaining floating marine barriers on the Rio Grande River, Abbott affirmed their necessity: “We fought to keep these barriers in the water.”
August brought an executive order requiring hospitals to report healthcare costs incurred by illegal immigrants due to federal policies. "Texans should not have to shoulder the burden," asserted Abbott.
Abbott designated Tren de Aragua as a terrorist organization in September while launching operations against them: “Our top focus is safety and security.”
Last month during Thanksgiving, Governor Abbott served meals to personnel stationed along the border and reiterated their importance: "You are essential to keep Texas sovereign."
Abbott announced another court victory regarding razor wire barriers last month via social media platform X.
Recently unveiled was a billboard campaign across Central America and Mexico discouraging migrants from attempting dangerous journeys into Texas illegally. "We're here to talk about a new campaign to deter illegal immigration into Texas," said Abbott.
