Texas Gov. Greg Abbott Abandons New Border Inspections After Huge Costs

Two weeks ago, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) implemented a new border security plan, known as Operation Lone Star, which contributed to blocking vehicles from Mexico due to enhanced inspections. This week, Abbott abandoned the plan after a huge backlash from business owners.

Along with enhanced inspections, Abbott’s program allowed authorities to arrest migrants accused of trespassing. Lieutenant Chris Olivarez, a spokesperson with the Texas Department of Public Safety, tweeted “the state of Texas has the manpower, technology & infrastructure to deter mass migration and combat transnational criminal activity.” No migrants were found during to the new inspections, however.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection said the inspections aren’t “necessary to protect the safety and security of Texas communities and is resulting in significant impacts to local supply chains that will impact consumers and businesses nationally.”

Beto O’ Rourke (D-Texas), the Democratic nominee for governor, blasted Abbott’s plan. “It does nothing to stop the smuggling of human beings. It does nothing to improve the safety or security of the people of Texas.”