House Speaker Mike Johnson, representing Louisiana, has strongly criticized the Biden administration’s approach to open border policies, asserting that they are undermining the nation’s security. This criticism comes after a discussion Johnson had with Texas Governor Greg Abbott on Monday regarding the ongoing challenges posed by the influx of illegal immigrants into Texas from Mexico.
Governor Abbott and President Biden have been at odds over this issue, with Abbott taking proactive measures to address the situation. He directed the Texas National Guard to erect barriers of razor wire along the Rio Grande River, which serves as the border between the United States and Mexico. Recently, the Supreme Court ruled that Customs and Border Patrol agents under the Biden administration have the authority to remove this wire.
Furthermore, the Biden administration has initiated legal action against a Texas law set to take effect on March 5. This law makes it a state crime to cross into the country illegally between designated ports of entry, imposing penalties of up to 20 years in prison for repeat offenders. The law also allows a judge to dismiss charges if the illegal immigrant agrees to return to Mexico. The Biden administration contends that the federal government alone bears the responsibility for border security.
In a news release obtained by Newsmax, Speaker Johnson stated, “Under the U.S. Constitution, the federal government and the state of Texas have a dual and complementary responsibility to exercise police powers to protect the health and safety of the people.” He expressed concern that President Biden and his administration’s actions have undermined security, leading to an ongoing crisis along the southern border.
While advocating for the federal government to fulfill its obligations in border security, Johnson emphasized the expectation of the U.S. House of Representatives that the Biden Administration should not interfere with Texas as it carries out its responsibilities in addressing the border challenges.
Johnson had previously communicated his stance in a letter to the House Republican Conference, warning that any bipartisan Senate agreement involving Ukraine aid and southern border policies that incentivized illegal immigration would not gain support in the House. He reiterated his commitment to standing with Governor Abbott in his efforts to protect Texas citizens and all Americans. Johnson emphasized that House Republicans would vehemently oppose any policy proposals from the White House or the Senate that encourage illegal immigrants to violate U.S. laws.
