“Texans on the border are suffering through a humanitarian crisis,” Gov. Greg Abbott declared at a June 16 press conference announcing that Texas would build its own border wall. Democrats in the Legislature were surprised to learn that the budget they just passed will provide initial funds for it to the tune of $250 million, but Abbott was unapologetic about putting the border crisis front and center. Two hours before that announcement, Abbott sat down with the Washington Examiner and made clear the issue is a priority — and a challenge to President Joe Biden.

“The president has abdicated his duty, his sworn duty, to follow and apply the laws that Congress has written about immigration policies,” Abbott said. “This is more than just a ‘follow the law’ approach. Our approach is one of being empathetic and responsive to the needs of Texans on the border.”