Texas Governor Greg Abbott has once again stirred controversy among left-leaning individuals after unveiling a new plan to combat illegal immigration in the Lone Star State.
As reported by Fox News, Abbott has initiated the implementation of a “marine barrier installation,” consisting of orange buoys designed to serve as floating border barriers.
This move is part of Operation Lone Star, a comprehensive operation initiated by Texas Republicans aimed at curbing the influx of undocumented immigrants crossing the southern border.
The decision to employ these unique floating barriers reflects the state’s commitment to finding innovative solutions to address the significant challenges posed by illegal immigration.
“New marine barrier installation on the Rio Grande begins today. Texas DPS is overseeing the project in Eagle Pass. More to come.” Abbott announced.
New marine barrier installation on the Rio Grande begins today.
Texas DPS is overseeing the project in Eagle Pass.
More to come. pic.twitter.com/nHrTqUG7Fi— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) July 7, 2023
The marine barrier installation, as described by the Washington Post, incorporates a layer of webbing to prevent individuals from swimming underneath it. It is projected to extend approximately 1,000 feet along the stretch of the Rio Grande River near Eagle Pass.
Texas officials estimate that it will take approximately two weeks to complete the installation of the orange buoys across the river. Steve McCraw, the director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, believes that these barriers will not only serve as a deterrent but also potentially save lives.
“Anytime they get in that water, it’s a risk to the migrants. This is the deterrent from even coming in the water.”
Unsurprisingly, liberals have reacted strongly to this development. David Donatti, an attorney representing the far-left American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), criticized the barrier as a “blight on Texas’s moral conscience.”
He argues that the floating balls fail to address the underlying reasons why people are seeking entry into the United States.
Concerned that this innovative approach may effectively impede the border influx encouraged by President Joe Biden, his supporters have resorted to legal action.
“‘Abbott sued over plan to deploy buoys in the Rio Grande.’ We will see you in court. And don’t think the Travis Co. Court will be the end of it. This is going to the Supreme Court. Texas has a constitutional right to secure our border.” Abbott said.
It remains to be seen how courts will rule on this matter, as recent decisions have demonstrated varying interpretations of the law. The uncertainty surrounding the positions of Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Brett Kavanaugh has further complicated the legal landscape.
