Two additional counties in Texas have now declared an invasion at the southern border, bringing the total number of counties to 55.
On March 5, Denton and Williamson counties launched a declaration, declaring an invasion through concise, one-page resolutions.
Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell Jr., who backed the adoption of the resolution, explained his reasoning by highlighting the fentanyl poisoning crisis the county was facing. He acknowledged the commendable efforts of the county’s fentanyl task force, led by a local detective, that has been working tirelessly to combat the issue. However, he emphasized the unfortunate reality that fentanyl poisoning incidents occur on a weekly basis in Williamson County. Expressing his exasperation, Judge Gravell stated, “I’m tired of it.”
In 2022, three teenagers tragically lost their lives due to fentanyl poisoning in the county. In response to this devastating loss, their parents established The Forever 15 Project and courageously shared their stories and experiences before Congress. Additionally, a mother from the same county, whose 19-year-old son fell victim to fentanyl poisoning, founded Texas Against Fentanyl. She, too, has testified about the fentanyl crisis and recently attended the State of the Union address.
In response to the president’s State of the Union address, Gov. Greg Abbott expressed his concerns about the Biden Administration’s lack of action in securing the border and preventing the entry of dangerous drugs and criminals into the country. According to Abbott, American families are suffering as a result of this inaction. He emphasized that Texas will take a strong stance and utilize every available tool and strategy to ensure the safety of the nation until the president fulfills his duty.
Williamson County’s perspective on the border crisis is clear: while the issue may not directly impact them in terms of legal or illegal immigration, the influx of fentanyl into the country is a pressing concern. With a deep sense of responsibility as a grandfather of five, Gravell emphasizes the need to protect future generations at all costs. The community of Williamson County is dedicated to tirelessly combating drug trafficking and ensuring that the streets remain safe. Gravell makes it unequivocally clear that if anyone chooses to enter their community with the intent to harm their children, they will be held accountable. The value placed on the lives of children by both the county and a higher power is unwavering.
In reference to Abbott’s actions regarding the border crisis in America, Gravell commended him as one of the few governors taking meaningful steps. He suggested that whoever becomes the Republican presidential nominee should seriously consider Abbott as their vice president, given his strong track record in addressing this pressing issue. Gravell emphasized the urgency of the situation, asserting that no other candidate has demonstrated the same level of effectiveness as Abbott.
Former President Donald Trump, who is considered the presumptive nominee, has recently expressed his openness to the suggestion. However, Governor Abbott has reiterated that his focus remains on staying in Texas.
Denton County Judge Andy Eads expressed that the resolution they recently passed serves as an official acknowledgment of their long-standing belief that the border crisis significantly affects their community. This resolution not only documents their court’s opinion during this crucial period in history, but also reflects the challenges they are currently facing in the world.
In addition, he emphasized the allocation of $11.5 billion by the Texas legislature for Abbott’s border security mission, Operation Lone Star. He expressed his satisfaction with the state’s commitment to this cause, but also pondered the potential impact of redirecting these funds towards other pressing needs within the state. He envisioned the positive outcomes that could be achieved for teachers, classrooms, and infrastructure development, thereby alleviating the tax burden on the county.
U.S. Representative Roger Williams, a Republican from north Texas who previously served as Texas’ Secretary of State under former Governor Rick Perry, has introduced a bill aimed at ensuring that the federal government reimburses Texas for its border security expenses.
Both county resolutions express support for Governor Greg Abbott’s commitment to securing the Texas border and his proactive approach to addressing the intricate challenges related to illegal immigration and border security. The resolution from Williamson County specifically commends Governor Abbott for his dedication and endorses policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing border security. Additionally, county officials pledge their support for Governor Abbott’s leadership in implementing these measures throughout the state of Texas.
Denton County’s resolution acknowledges the invasion and imminent danger posed by the southern Texas border. It expresses full support for Governor Abbott, the Texas legislative delegation, and Operation Lone Star’s state-led efforts to safeguard Texas sovereignty and secure the border. The resolution, passed unanimously, urges the federal government to fulfill its responsibilities in adequately securing and protecting the borders of the United States.
Williamson and Denton counties have joined 53 other counties in declaring a state of emergency in response to an ongoing invasion. This decision comes after Kinney, Goliad, and Terrell counties were the first to declare an invasion on July 5, 2022. Additionally, a total of 60 counties have issued disaster declarations, with Kinney County leading the way on April 21, 2021.
Since April 2021, almost 100 counties have issued disaster declarations or invasion resolutions, or both, collectively.
According to resolutions obtained by The Center Square, a total of 55 counties have declared an invasion. These counties include Atascosa, Bandera, Blanco, Burnet, Chambers, Clay, Collin, Crockett, Denton, Ector, Edwards, Ellis, Fannin, Franklin, Frio, Goliad, Guadalupe, Hamilton, Hardin, Harrison, Hood, Hunt, Jack, Jasper, Johnson, Karnes, Kinney, La Salle, Lavaca, Leon, Liberty, Live Oak, Madison, McMullen, Medina, Montague, Montgomery, Navarro, Orange, Parker, Presidio, Schleicher, Shackelford, Somervell, Terrell, Throckmorton, Tyler, Uvalde, Van Zandt, Waller, Wharton, Wichita, Williamson, Wilson, and Wise.