2024: A Joint Statement from Republican Governors in Support of Texas’ Border Security Efforts
In a bold and unified stance, 24 Republican governors, led by Iowa’s Governor Kim Reynolds, have issued a joint statement in support of Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s actions to secure the southern border and protect the state from the escalating crisis of illegal immigration. The statement, released in 2024, reflects a growing frustration among these leaders over the Biden administration’s handling of the border situation, which they deem as a grave threat to the nation’s security and public safety.
The Plight of Texas and the Failure of Federal Leadership
The statement begins by highlighting the dire circumstances faced by Texas, a state bearing the brunt of the illegal immigration surge. Governor Reynolds and her fellow signatories condemn the Biden administration’s policies, which they argue have exacerbated the crisis by undermining border security and encouraging mass illegal entry. They point to the surge in illegal border crossings, the influx of deadly drugs like fentanyl, and the increased risk of terrorist infiltration as evidence of the administration’s failed approach.
Invoking Constitutional Authority for Self-Defense
In response to the federal government’s inaction, the governors assert that Texas has a constitutional right to self-defense under Article 4, Section 4, and Article 1, Section 10, Clause 3 of the U.S. Constitution. They contend that the Biden administration’s abdication of its constitutional responsibilities to the states justifies Texas’s utilization of various border security measures, including razor wire fences, to protect its citizens and uphold the rule of law.
A Call for Unity and Cooperation
The statement emphasizes the need for solidarity among states in addressing the border crisis. The governors express their support for Governor Abbott’s efforts and urge the Biden administration to work collaboratively with the states to secure the border and enforce existing immigration laws. They stress the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of all Americans.
A List of Signatories Demonstrating Widespread Support
The statement is signed by a diverse group of Republican governors from across the country, representing states with varying levels of exposure to the border crisis. The signatories include:
- 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)
A Reflection of Growing Frustration and a Demand for Action
The joint statement issued by these Republican governors serves as a powerful message of discontent with the Biden administration’s handling of the border crisis. It underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate action to address the escalating challenges posed by illegal immigration and border insecurity. The governors’ invocation of constitutional authority for self-defense signals their determination to protect their states and the nation as a whole. The statement also highlights the importance of unity and cooperation among states in tackling this complex issue, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach to border security and immigration enforcement.