Supreme Court Sides with Federal Government Over Border Dispute
The Supreme Court weighed in on the recent standoff between Border Patrol and the state of Texas, granting federal agents the authority to remove razor wire installed along the border. The ruling comes in response to a request from the Biden administration, asserting that Texas was obstructing Border Patrol agents in performing their duties, and the razor wire hindered the processing of individuals crossing the border.
The conflict first began late last year when Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared an “invasion” at the southern border and ordered the installation of razor wire along the border. Abbott argued that Texas would take more responsibility in enforcing immigration laws, claiming the federal government was neglecting its duty. Border Patrol agents subsequently cut the wire, prompting Texas to file a lawsuit alleging trespassing and damage to state property.
Initially ruling in favor of the federal government, a federal judge’s decision was later reversed by an appeals court, siding with Texas. The Justice Department then sought Supreme Court intervention to overturn the order.
Now, the Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the federal government, allowing Border Patrol agents to proceed with cutting the razor wire. Among the four justices who voted for the government to not get involved were Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch, and Brett Kavanaugh voted to reject the request. None of the justices have provided an explanation for their votes.
The current conflict along the border between the Texas National Guard and federal border patrol agents has intensified in recent days, with Texas seizing control of a piece of public land, Shelby Park, that was being used by the federal government to process and transport illegal immigrants. Texas has consistently claimed that it is taking matters into its own hands as the federal government has refused to effectively combat the massive waves of illegal immigration that have been occurring at the southern border.
“Texas is holding the line at our southern border with miles of additional razor wire and anti-climb barriers to deter and repel the record-high levels of illegal immigration invited by President Biden’s reckless open border policies. Instead of enforcing federal immigration laws, the Biden Administration allows unfettered access for Mexican cartels to smuggle people into our country,” said Renae Eze, spokesperson for the Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott.
It is unknown at this time if Texas will comply with the Supreme Court’s decision to allow federal agents to remove razor wire.
