Texas Escalates Razor Wire Installation Defying SCOTUS Ruling
The Supreme Court has issued a ruling permitting the Biden administration to proceed with the removal of razor wire installed by Texas along the U.S.-Mexico border, marking a temporary win for the federal government amidst an ongoing legal dispute. Despite the court's decision, Texas has continued to fortify the border at Shelby Park in Eagle Pass with additional barriers and razor wire, actions that have been publicly supported by Texas Rep. Chip Roy.
The Texas National Guard states its commitment to preventing unlawful entry into the state by maintaining its defensive position at Shelby Park. Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Lt. Chris Olivarez has reiterated the state's intention to uphold its border security measures. The Department of Homeland Security has criticized Texas' actions, claiming that the state's barriers hindered a response to a tragic incident in January involving the drowning of a migrant mother and her two children.
This legal contention arises from a broader clash over border management authority, with Texas asserting the right to install deterrents against illegal crossings. The state sued last year to prevent federal authorities from cutting the wire, claiming that such actions would destroy state property and compromise security. Governor Greg Abbott has defended Texas's right to use barriers as a means to deter illegal immigration. On the other hand, the Biden administration and advocates argue that the wire presents dangers and obstructs federal agents from performing their duties, with National Border Patrol Council President Brandon Judd suggesting that removing the wire could potentially encourage more illegal immigration.
