Good morning, Chairman Hughes and members of the committee,
Texas has long been on the frontlines of the border crisis, enduring the devastating effects of unchecked illegal immigration, cartel-driven human trafficking, and smuggling networks that overwhelm local law enforcement agencies.
On January 20, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14159, “Protecting the American People Against Invasion,” invoking Article IV, Section 4 of the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees states the authority and support necessary to repel invasions and defend their borders (Executive Order 14159, 2025; U.S. Const. art. IV § 4).
Shortly after, on January 23, 2025, the Acting Secretary of Homeland Security formally declared a “Mass Influx of Aliens,” invoking 28 C.F.R. § 65.83 to formally request state and local assistance in immigration enforcement (DHS, 2025; 28 C.F.R. § 65.83).
Read the full testimony below.