A federal judge has ruled that Texas Governor Greg Abbott violated federal laws in his attempts to stop refugees from entering the state.
A Clash Over Immigration Policies
Since President Biden assumed office, Texas has been embroiled in an ongoing feud with the federal government over conflicting immigration policies. Unlike Texas, the Biden administration has always advocated for humane treatment of individuals crossing the border.
Abbott’s Unconventional Approach
Due to the challenges posed by the Biden administration, Governor Greg Abbott has become rather creative in his efforts to halt the influx of refugees into Texas. One of his recent endeavors involved a massive floating barrier in the Rio Grande.
The Floating Barrier
The barrier aimed to stop people from crossing the river without being caught. Equipped with serrated blades, it also posed a physical threat to those attempting to bypass it. Moreover, it made it extremely difficult for them to transport their belongings.
A Civil Suit
The Justice Department responded by filing a civil suit, asserting that the barrier violated a law requiring states to obtain permission to obstruct significant waterways. They also sought an injunction to remove the barrier immediately. Federal Judge David Ezra granted the injunction.
The Judge’s Verdict
Judge Ezra went beyond an injunction, stating that Abbott and the state had indeed violated federal law by installing the barrier. Furthermore, he agreed with the Justice Department’s argument that it endangered human lives.
Ronald Reagan’s Legacy
Notably, Judge Ezra was appointed to his position by former Republican President Ronald Reagan, dispelling any notion that political ties would guarantee a favorable outcome for the governor. This was undoubtedly a shock for Abbott. Regardless, an appeals court later said he could keep his barrier for the time being.
The Internet’s Response
News of the barrier was shared across the internet and people flocked to comment sections to give their views. One person said: “[Abbott] is just another narcissist who thinks he is above the law. The MAGA candidates will lose next November.”
Discussion and Debate
A fair few commenters engaged in debate. “Another example of the liberals trying to use the liberal judges to harass Republicans,” one individual wrote. “A Reagan-appointed liberal judge? Good luck trying to convince anyone of that lie,” another hit back.
A MAGA Puppet
Discussing Abbott, another person said: “Started off as a reasonable person and has turned into a total MAGA puppet. Giving up one’s integrity to back the crazy agenda of the far-right is a decision many are making.”
An Absurdly Barbaric Barrier
Others pointed out the vile, dangerous, inhumane nature of Abbott’s barrier. “They aren’t just giant buoys. They are spiked buoys. Does anyone else find this absurdly barbaric?” one commenter said.
The Lack of Empathy
Another individual said: “Sometimes I wonder how the GOP can lack so much empathy that it demonizes people in such terrible circumstances in their own country that they’re willing to walk entire countries – sometimes barefoot – and risk so much just for the sliver of a chance at a better life. Imagine the desperation. I’ve worked with them. I’ve seen it in their eyes. But no, they’re painted as lazy people looking for a free ride. It’s crazy.”
They Are Desperate
Echoing the aforementioned commenter, another person wrote: “The amount of hatred in the U.S. makes me want to leave. These refugees are desperate. And what do we do? Install dangerous barriers and tell everyone they’re evil. It’s so unfair and disgusting.”
A Waste of Money
Others said the money spent on the barrier would be better used elsewhere: “The money would be much better spent on things like teacher salaries, education, fixing infrastructure, and healthcare access. But no, we get buoys.”
The Cost of Refugees
Replying to the aforementioned commenter, another person said: “See, that’s the thing. If they could prove that the cost of illegal immigrants was more than the cost of these shenanigans, I could support it. But they can’t. They don’t even know.”
Symptom vs. Cause
Also suggesting better ways the money could be spent, one individual wrote: “Imagine if they used this money to treat addiction instead, decreasing the demand for drugs supplied by cartels. They’re treating a runny nose when they have COVID.”
Gotta Love Republicans
Echoing the aforementioned commenter’s point, another person said: “Gotta love Republicans. They will waste time and taxpayer money on solutions that are like putting a small band-aid in a gaping, festering wound. But God forbid they spend time and taxpayer money on solutions that would actually help solve the problem.”
A Publicity Stunt
Others called Abbott’s barrier a publicity stunt: “The vast majority of the pictures you see on the news, of immigrants in the long lines of people at the border, are people seeking refugee status. This is legal and no floaties in the river will stop people from seeking asylum. It’s nothing more than a publicity stunt.”
A Laughably Embarrassing Idea
Numerous commenters were embarrassed by Abbott’s antics. One such person said: “These people have walked miles with everything they own. Some of them have crossed multiple countries mostly on foot. You think a short line of buoys is going to stop them? This is laughably embarrassing.”
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