The Justice Department has asked the Supreme Court to force Texas to stop blocking Border Patrol personnel from a large area of the U.S.-Mexico border where many migrants cross. This sets up another immigration enforcement dispute between Republican Texas Governor Greg Abbott and the Biden administration.
Texas Fences Key Border Park, Escalating Tensions with Federal Government
Texas fences a Rio Grande park in Eagle Pass, where Mexican migrants enter. This restriction has limited federal officers’ access to a larger and more conspicuous crossing location, exacerbating state-federal tensions.
The Justice Department petitioned the Supreme Court after Texas informed Eagle Pass that public access to the Rio Grande Park would be closed. Border Patrol officials cannot use the park to launch boats into the river or process detained migrants due to the closure.
The federal lawsuit against Texas opposes concertina wire installation for 30 miles near Eagle Pass. The current park closure adds to Texas and the federal government’s legal fights over river buoys, razor wire, and an upcoming bill allowing police to detain migrants.
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Texas Governor Closes Border Park in Operation Lone Star, Sparking Federal Dispute
Governor Abbott justified Shelby Park’s closure as part of Operation Lone Star border enforcement. The governor said Texas may limit entry to any facility. Abbott is increasing border security with this step. Texas’s sovereignty over the area would allow Border Patrol agents to patrol areas with high concentrations of illegal immigrants evading arrest, according to the National Border Patrol Council.
Last week, Governor Abbott said Texas would do everything to stop illegal crossings short of murdering individuals, sparking uproar. Mexico’s foreign relations secretary condemned the remarks as inciting violence and dehumanizing migrants.
The Justice Department’s Supreme Court appeal shows Texas and the federal government’s immigration enforcement dispute. Texas’ closing of a key U.S.-Mexico border crossing adds to border security and immigration disputes.
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