Texas has openly defied a cease-and-desist request from the Biden administration concerning the state’s actions that hinder U.S. Border Patrol agents from accessing a section of the U.S.-Mexico border.
Attorney General Ken Paxton of Texas has responded to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), firmly rejecting their demand to halt the state’s control over Shelby Park in Eagle Pass, a critical point for southwest border illegal immigration.
Paxton firm on Texas border control amid DHS demand for access
In his reply, Paxton stated, “Because the facts and law side with Texas, the State will continue utilizing its constitutional authority to defend her territory, and I will continue defending those lawful efforts in court.”
This strong position underscores Texas’ commitment to maintaining control over the area.
For further comment, DHS referred to a letter by General Counsel Jonathan Meyer, which directed Texas to stop obstructing the Border Patrol’s access to approximately 2½ miles of the border, currently under the Texas National Guard’s occupation.
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Dispute over Rio Grande drowning incident
Adding to the complexity of the situation, DHS officials reported that a woman and two children tragically drowned in the Rio Grande.
They stated that Border Patrol agents “were physically barred by Texas officials from entering the area” under orders from Republican Governor Greg Abbott, potentially impacting the agents’ ability to respond.
In contrast, the Texas Military Department countered this claim, stating that although they received a distress report, their personnel did not detect any migrants in distress.
White House condemnation and Paxton’s rebuttal
The White House has criticized Abbott’s immigration policies in light of the drownings, labeling them as “cruel, inhumane and dangerous.”
However, Paxton, in his Wednesday letter, refuted any claims linking the state to the deaths, describing such suggestions as “vile and, as you now should be aware, completely inaccurate.”
This exchange highlights the deepening rift between Texas and the Biden administration over border control and immigration policies.
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Biden Admin considers legal action against Texas over border patrol access
Amid these tensions, the Biden administration has indicated a willingness to escalate the matter to the Justice Department if Texas continues to deny full access to Border Patrol agents in the disputed area.
This looming threat of legal action adds another layer of complexity to an already fraught situation, signaling potential further confrontations between federal and state authorities.
Texas-Biden clash highlights national debate on immigration and authority
The ongoing dispute between Texas and the Biden administration reflects broader national debates over immigration policy and state versus federal authority.
As Texas stands firm in its actions at the border and the federal government contemplates its next move, the situation remains a significant point of contention, with potential implications for both border security and humanitarian concerns.
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