AUSTIN, TX — Texas Governor Greg Abbott has called on the federal government to reimburse the state for over $11.1 billion spent on border security measures during President Joe Biden’s administration. In letters sent to U.S. Congressional members on Thursday, Abbott criticized the federal government’s handling of border issues, citing a failure to control illegal immigration and combat threats like organized crime and drug trafficking.
Abbott attributed the escalating crisis at the southern border to what he described as the Biden administration’s “negligence” over the past four years. “President Biden’s policies have left Texas and the entire nation vulnerable to violent criminals, known terrorists, and other foreign actors, including members of Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua gang,” Abbott stated.
Operation Lone Star: Texas Takes Action
In response to federal inaction, Abbott launched Operation Lone Star in March 2021, mobilizing the Texas National Guard and Department of Public Safety to enhance border security. Abbott reported that the initiative has led to:
- An 87% reduction in illegal immigration into Texas.
- The apprehension of over 500,000 individuals attempting to cross the border illegally.
- Prevention of more than 140,000 illegal entry attempts.
- Over 50,000 criminal arrests and the seizure of 500 million lethal doses of fentanyl.
- Construction of over 240 miles of border barriers.
The state also established the nation’s only National Guard base along the U.S.-Mexico border to bolster these efforts.
“Texas has taken extraordinary measures where the federal government has failed, effectively protecting not only our state but the entire country,” Abbott emphasized.
The Financial Burden
While proud of Operation Lone Star’s accomplishments, Abbott highlighted its financial toll, which has exceeded $11.1 billion. He argued that Texas taxpayers have borne a burden that should have been the responsibility of the federal government.
Before the Biden administration, Abbott noted, Texas spent approximately $800 million biennially to supplement federal border efforts. The steep increase in costs, he said, reflects the federal government’s abandonment of its obligations.
Legislative Efforts
House Republicans have introduced bills to reimburse Texas for these expenditures, but no legislation has passed to date. Abbott urged lawmakers to act, stressing that the state’s efforts benefit the entire nation.
“The burden Texas has carried stems directly from federal inaction,” Abbott wrote. “Our investment in border security has protected millions of Americans, and it’s time for the federal government to shoulder its share of the cost.”
Ongoing Debate
The call for reimbursement underscores the growing tension between state and federal governments over border policies. Abbott’s demand is likely to intensify debates in Washington, as Republican lawmakers push for stronger border measures while Democrats advocate for comprehensive immigration reform.
