Texas Governor Greg Abbott has ordered the National Guard into multiple major cities—including San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas—amid growing concerns that violent anti-ICE protests seen in California could spread into the Lone Star State.
Abbott made it clear the move is a preemptive measure to preserve order and protect Texans. “Peaceful protest is legal. Harming a person or property is illegal and will lead to arrest,” he said. “Texas will not tolerate the lawlessness we’ve seen in Los Angeles.”
Approximately 150 Guard members were activated and positioned in key areas ahead of demonstrations linked to the nationwide “No Kings” day of protest. Some of the events are organized by groups directly tied to the unrest in Los Angeles, where ICE agents and federal officers were ambushed with fireworks, concrete, and Molotov cocktails.
Unlike Democrat leaders in California, Abbott isn’t waiting for chaos to unfold. His administration coordinated with state police to ensure rapid response capabilities and placed local law enforcement on high alert. Abbott also emphasized that mayors and city councils will not have the authority to block the Guard’s presence if public safety is at risk.
At a recent rally, Abbott didn’t hold back. When asked about the National Guard mobilization, he responded with one word: “FAFO”—a clear warning to agitators that any violence will be met with swift consequences.
Texas officials say the state is preparing for additional protests in the days ahead. While some Democrat-led cities express concern over the optics of Guard deployment, Abbott’s office has received support from sheriffs, ICE officials, and state lawmakers who believe the priority must be restoring deterrence before violence takes root.
With protests heating up across the country, Abbott’s move places Texas firmly on the side of law and order—before the riots begin.