Gov. Greg Abbott appeared in an episode of a podcast called Ruthless that was produced Tuesday morning to discuss the proposed security barrier and advise the public that individuals will have the opportunity to help pay for the barrier.
“[W]hen I do make the announcement later on this week, I will also be providing a link that you can click on and go to for everybody in the United States, or really everybody in the entire world, who wants to help Texas build the border wall, there will be a place on there where they can contribute to Texas building the border wall,” Abbott said.
The governor explained that his office will oversee the proceeds from the fundraiser and the only use of any contributions will be for the border wall project.
Decrying the illegal immigration disaster, Abbott also indicated that it’s a “third world country” in some areas along the border due to trespassing and violence.
Elaborating on the state’s strategy against illegal immigration, Abbott emphasized both security measures and a legal strategy.
“We have multiple strategies. One is we will first be adding fencing right along the border, which will slow people to some extent, but also it sets up a crime,” Abbott explained.Â
“Anybody coming across the border who in any way tries to damage that fence, they are guilty of two crimes. One is trespassing, the other is vandalism. And because I’ve declared it a disaster, the penalties for those crimes have increased one or two notches.”
The governor also reiterated his plan to announce the details of his proposed state border wall project later this week.
Abbott said he is cooperating with members of the Texas legislature on the project. There were unsuccessful proposals during the 87th legislature’s regular session to construct a state border wall.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced his full support for the project last week, saying “it is now imperative that Texas takes action.”
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Hayden Sparks
Hayden Sparks is a senior reporter for The Texan and a lifelong resident of the Lone Star State. He has coached competitive speech and debate and has been involved in politics since a young age. One of Hayden's favorite quotes is by Sam Houston: "Texas has yet to learn submission to any oppression, come from what source it may."
