Texas Governor Greg Abbott has ordered the state’s National Guard to deploy to San Antonio and other locations ahead of immigration-related protests planned for later this week. The move comes amid rising tensions over federal immigration enforcement and public demonstrations across the country.
In a statement posted to social media, Gov. Greg Abbott said the deployment aims to ensure public safety. “Peaceful protest is legal. Harming a person or property is illegal & will lead to arrest,” he wrote. “The Texas National Guard will use every tool & strategy to help law enforcement maintain order.”
Gov. Abbott emphasized that the troops are “on standby” and will work in support of state and local law enforcement. While the governor did not specify how many troops would be mobilized or which locations besides San Antonio might see a deployment, the statement suggested a broader readiness across Texas.
The decision follows a similar move by President Donald Trump, who called for the California National Guard to be sent into Los Angeles. The deployment, which included 700 U.S. Marines, came in response to largely peaceful demonstrations opposing federal immigration raids. California officials sharply criticized the move, calling it a political stunt.
California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the federal deployment, calling it an "assault on democracy" and accusing Trump of using military force for political purposes.
In San Antonio, local officials, including Police Chief William McManus and Mayor Ron Nirenberg, have expressed support for peaceful protests while emphasizing the need to prevent violence.
Governor Abbott’s office has not released further details on the length or scope of the National Guard’s presence. For now, the state appears braced for potential unrest, even as many on the ground continue to advocate for peaceful expression.
