Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced the deployment of the National Guard across the state in response to anti-immigration protests that are spreading beyond Los Angeles. The governor stated that the National Guard will use all available means to maintain law and order. He emphasized that peaceful protests are legal but harming people or property is illegal and will result in arrests. Abbott also signed a new law to give law enforcement more tools to combat crime without fear of being targeted by prosecutors.
This move follows the Trump administration’s decision to send troops to Los Angeles after mass protests erupted following anti-immigration raids. The number of military personnel in Los Angeles now exceeds the number of troops deployed in Iraq and Syria combined. Recently, President Trump authorized an additional 2,000 National Guardsmen to join the 2,000 already stationed there, along with around 700 Marines. This brings the total military presence in Los Angeles to nearly 4,800.
Governor Abbott expressed strong support for law enforcement officers, calling them the frontline defenders of safety and order in Texas. The National Guard deployment aims to back up local police forces to prevent violence and protect property as protests continue to grow. The state hopes this action will deter any unlawful acts and provide reassurance to residents.
The protests began after federal raids targeting undocumented immigrants and have led to heightened tensions across the country. The use of military forces in cities like Los Angeles and now Texas has sparked debate about the balance between public safety and civil liberties. As the protests continue, officials remain alert and prepared for any further developments.
