President Trump officially issued a directive Wednesday deploying the National Guard to the southern border with Mexico.
Arizona Governor Doug Ducey, like Governor Jan Brewer before him, welcomed the move.
Thx you @SecNielsen. Appreciated the opportunity to discuss this plan with you, @GovAbbott, @Gov_Martinez, @JerryBrownGov, @DeptofDefense and @CBP. Arizona welcomes this enhanced security, and we are grateful for your support. https://t.co/PSWz4dxbSX
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) April 5, 2018
Texas Governor Greg Abbott is also onboard.
"My top priority as Governor is ensuring the safety and security of Texans, and securing our southern border has always been essential to that mission," said Governor Abbott. "In my time as Governor, Texas has maintained a continuous presence of National Guard members along the border, and we’ve added hundreds of permanent Department of Public Safety troopers to the region," Abbott released in a statement. "Today’s action by the Trump Administration reinforces Texas’ longstanding commitment to secure our southern border and uphold the Rule of Law, and I welcome the support. Going forward, Texas will continue to implement robust border security efforts, and this partnership will help ensure we are doing everything we can to stem the flow of illegal immigration.”
As is New Mexico Governor Susanna Martinez.
The governor “appreciates the administration’s efforts to bring states to the table as they go about taking steps to better secure our border,” Martinez spokesman Michael Lonergan said in a statement.
“The men and women of the New Mexico National Guard are well-trained professionals, and the governor supports them fully in any mission — state or federal at home or abroad,” Lonergan said.
At this point, California Governor Jerry Brown hasn't said whether he will support sending National Guard troops at the direction of President Trump, but Oregon Governor Kate is staunchly opposed to cooperating.
There’s been no outreach by the President or federal officials, and I have no intention of allowing Oregon’s guard troops to be used to distract from his troubles in Washington.
— Governor Kate Brown (@OregonGovBrown) April 4, 2018
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen said during a briefing with reporters at the White House Wednesday that the number of National Guard troops needed will be determined after discussions with local governors.
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