2024: A Joint Statement by Republican Governors in Support of Texas’ Border Security Measures

A Bold Display of Unity and a Call to Action

In a resounding show of solidarity, 24 Republican governors, led by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, have issued a joint statement expressing unwavering support for Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s efforts to secure the southern border and protect the state from the influx of illegal immigrants and illicit substances. This collective action reflects the growing frustration among Republican leaders over the Biden administration’s handling of the border crisis and its perceived failure to uphold the rule of law.

The Statement: A Scathing Critique and an Assertion of States’ Rights

The joint statement begins with a scathing critique of President Biden and his administration, accusing them of leaving Americans and the country vulnerable to unprecedented levels of illegal immigration. The governors emphasize that the Biden administration has not only failed to uphold the rule of law and secure the border but has actively attacked and sued Texas for taking steps to protect its citizens from the consequences of this negligence.

The statement then expresses solidarity with Governor Abbott and the State of Texas in their utilization of various strategies, including razor wire fences, to secure the border. The governors assert that this action is necessary due to the Biden administration’s refusal to enforce existing immigration laws and its illegal allowance of mass parole across America for migrants who entered the country illegally.

The Constitutional Justification: States’ Right of Self-Defense

The governors ground their support for Texas’ actions in the U.S. Constitution, specifically Article 4, Section 4, and Article 1, Section 10, Clause 3. They argue that the framers of the Constitution recognized the right of states to self-defense in times when the federal government fails to fulfill its constitutional duties.

They contend that the Biden administration’s abdication of its constitutional compact duties to the states provides Texas with every legal justification to protect the sovereignty of its state and the nation as a whole.

Signatories: A Coalition of Republican Governors

The joint statement is signed by 24 Republican governors representing a diverse range of states across the country. This broad coalition includes:

– Governor Kay Ivey (AL)
– Governor Mike Dunleavy (AK)
– Governor Sarah Sanders (AR)
– Governor Ron DeSantis (FL)
– Governor Brian Kemp (GA)
– Governor Brad Little (ID)
– Governor Eric Holcomb (IN)
– Governor Jeff Landry (LA)
– Governor Tate Reeves (MS)
– Governor Mike Parson (MO)
– Governor Greg Gianforte (MT)
– Governor Jim Pillen (NE)
– Governor Joe Lombardo (NV)
– Governor Chris Sununu (NH)
– Governor Doug Burgum (ND)
– Governor Mike DeWine (OH)
– Governor Kevin Stitt (OK)
– Governor Henry McMaster (SC)
– Governor Kristi Noem (SD)
– Governor Bill Lee (TN)
– Governor Spencer Cox (UT)
– Governor Glenn Youngkin (VA)
– Governor Jim Justice (WV)
– Governor Mark Gordon (WY)

Implications and Significance

The joint statement by Republican governors is a significant development in the ongoing debate over border security and federal-state relations. It reflects the growing frustration among Republican leaders over the Biden administration’s handling of the border crisis and its perceived failure to uphold the rule of law.

The statement also highlights the willingness of Republican governors to take matters into their own hands when they believe the federal government is not fulfilling its constitutional duties. This willingness to assert state sovereignty could have far-reaching implications for the balance of power between the federal government and the states.

Conclusion: A Call for Action and a Divided Nation

The joint statement by Republican governors is a clear indication of the deep divisions that exist in the United States over the issue of border security. It remains to be seen how the Biden administration will respond to this challenge and whether it will be able to find common ground with Republican governors on this critical issue.

As the debate over border security continues, it is essential to remember that the well-being and security of the nation depend on a collaborative and cooperative approach between the federal government and the states. Only through open dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to the rule of law can we address the complex challenges posed by illegal immigration and illicit drug trafficking.