Texas Governor Abbott Extends Border Emergency Amid Claims of Low Migrant Numbers

Texas Governor Greg Abbott reiterated his claim that illegal crossings at the Texas-Mexico border pose a continuous danger, renewing a disaster proclamation that has been in place for five years. Federal figures from the Trump administration indicate that migrant flows have dropped to unprecedented lows since January 2025, a stark contrast to Abbott’s stance. The emergency declaration, refreshed at least 69 times since 2021, allows the governor to reallocate money, bypass normal procurement rules and issue no-bid contracts, including over $5 million for vehicles, firearms and housing.

Political scientists note the length and frequency of the emergency are unprecedented in Texas history. While Abbott’s office argues the measures are needed to combat drug trafficking and cartel activity, legislators have repeatedly failed to curb his authority under the state disaster act. The ongoing Operation Lone Star, funded by billions in state spending, continues to draw scrutiny over its effectiveness and the transparency of its expenditures.