2023-07-25 01:00:22
Migrants cross the Rio Grande, as a floating barrier is being installed, in Eagle Pass, Texas, July 12, 2023. ERIC GAY / AP
The showdown continues between Washington and Texas. Greg Abbott, the Republican governor of this state in the south of the United States, refused on Monday July 24 to remove a floating barrier installed on the Rio Grande to prevent the crossing of migrants from Mexico. In return, the Department of Justice filed suit against Texas.
The ministry had warned the services of Greg Abbott last week that these large orange buoys deployed near Eagle Pass obstructed the passage on the river. He had also noted that they did not have federal authorizations. “This floating barrier represents a risk for navigation as well as for public safety on the Rio Grande”said the ministry, also mentioning “humanitarian concerns”.
In a letter to US President Joe Biden, the Republican Governor responded on Monday that he has the authority to protect the interests ” Kings “ of Texas by installing these buoys. Greg Abbott also accused Joe Biden of failing in his own responsibilities regarding illegal immigration.
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“If you really value human life, you need to start enforcing federal immigration laws”he wrote. “By doing this, you can help me prevent migrants from risking their lives in the waters of the Rio Grande”he added, and to conclude: “Texas gives you an appointment in court, Mr. President. »
Migrants trapped
Hours after Mr. Abbott’s letter was published, the Justice Department filed a lawsuit against Texas and its governor. He says in the text that the State of Texas must obtain authorization before placing any structure on the Rio Grande and he asked the courts to order the removal of the buoys.
Floating barrier deployed at Eagle Pass, Texas. July 18, 2023. BRANDON BELL / AFP
“We must all recognize that there are laws and policies in place – both domestic and international – to ensure the safety of anyone working, living or traveling along the river. These laws cannot be ignored”underlines in a press release Jaime Esparza, federal prosecutor in Austin, the capital of Texas.
The buoys were installed on the Rio Grande this month, as was barbed wire on the shore. According to several American media, migrants found themselves caught in this fence and had to be rescued. A leaked Border Patrol document also claims that barbed wire placed by Texas state agents is interfering with its operations.
For several years, conservative elected officials have been indignant at the arrival of illegal immigrants. Donald Trump and his main rival for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, have both placed the notion of a supposedly out-of-control border at the heart of their campaigns.
But the Biden administration counters that the number of illegal crossings has dropped since the introduction of new asylum rules.
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