Texas National Guard Gains Arrest Powers for Immigration

Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Texas National Guard now has the authority to make immigration arrests under an agreement with the Trump administration, effective immediately. This memorandum of understanding with U.S. Customs and Border Protection allows National Guard troops to conduct patrols and make arrests provided they are accompanied by a U.S. immigration officer or Border Patrol agent. Approximately 3,000 National Guard soldiers are now added to the roster of federal agents enforcing immigration laws. This agreement aligns with Trump's nationwide initiative to deport undocumented immigrants and is part of a broader effort to strengthen border security. Despite the immediate effect of this agreement, it has not been fully disseminated across all Texas border sectors. The decision has sparked protests and raised concerns about the militarization of the border and potential civil rights violations.