Tom Homan, appointed by President-elect Donald J. Trump as his “border czar,” recently participated in an aerial tour led by Texas Governor Greg Abbott to review the state's efforts in curbing illegal crossings from Mexico. The tour highlighted a new camp for the Texas National Guard and buoy barriers in the Rio Grande, which have raised safety concerns for migrants.
Homan commended Texas's approach to border security, stating, “This is a model we can take across the country,” while addressing National Guard members and state troopers in Eagle Pass. Texas has invested billions in border security over the past three years, often in conflict with the federal government, which has allowed the state to expand its authority in immigration enforcement.
With the incoming Trump administration promising a strict immigration crackdown, Texas is preparing to play a significant role. Other Republican-led states have also expressed support, with Utah and Oklahoma officials indicating plans to deport unauthorized migrants. However, Texas, being the only Republican-led state on the Mexican border, is uniquely positioned.
Recently, Texas officials initiated new border programs and offered federal authorities land for the potential development of a deportation center. Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham has indicated the availability of 1,400 acres in South Texas and other locations around El Paso for this purpose.
Governor Abbott mentioned his discussions with Trump regarding border security preparations, though specifics remain undisclosed. Trump has suggested declaring a national emergency on immigration, potentially involving military resources. Abbott expressed support for military involvement in border enforcement, highlighting existing collaborations between police and military forces in Texas.
Despite the state's proactive measures, Abbott has indicated that Texas's role may diminish once the Trump administration is in place, allowing the state to redirect its substantial border security expenditures toward other priorities. Texas has already allocated over $10 billion to border efforts in recent years.
Democratic leaders have suggested that Texas seek reimbursement from the incoming administration for its border security spending. Since President Biden's tenure began, Abbott has extended state enforcement efforts, including the arrest of migrants for trespassing.
The state has also attempted to increase local police powers regarding unauthorized border crossings, leading to legal challenges from the Biden administration and civil rights groups. Current legal battles concerning Senate Bill 4, which aimed to criminalize unauthorized crossings, are ongoing.
Amid these developments, Texas has seen a decrease in the number of migrants attempting to cross the border, leading to a halt in its migrant busing program. Nevertheless, advocates suggest that this infrastructure could be repurposed for deporting migrants from urban areas back to Texas.
In addition to the mounted patrols initiated by state police, some local law enforcement officials have expressed uncertainty about new enforcement measures. Sheriff Tom Schmerber of Maverick County indicated a lack of resources to assist with federal deportation efforts and emphasized the need for federal funding to support any expanded operations.