Anti-migrant floating barrier | Texas challenges the Department of Justice

(Eagle Pass) Texas Governor Greg Abbott on Monday challenged the Justice Department, which in turn filed a lawsuit against his state over a floating barrier on the Rio Grande intended to prevent migrant crossings from Mexico.

The department told Texas last week that these large orange buoys near Eagle Pass were obstructing passage on the river and lacked federal clearances.

“This floating barrier poses a risk to navigation as well as public safety on the Rio Grande,” the department said, also citing “humanitarian concerns.”

In a letter to Democratic President Joe Biden, the Republican governor on Monday claimed he had the power to protect Texas’ “sovereign” interests by installing the buoys and accused Mr. Biden of failing in his own responsibilities regarding illegal immigration.

“If you really value human life, you need to start enforcing federal immigration laws,” he wrote.

“By doing this, you can help me prevent migrants from risking their lives in the waters of the Rio Grande,” he added, and concluded, “Texas gives you a court date, Mr. President. »

The buoys were installed on the river this month, as was barbed wire on the shore.

According to press reports, migrants got caught in this fence and had to be rescued.

A leaked Border Patrol document also said barbed wire placed by state agents was interfering with its operations.

Hours after Mr. Abbott’s letter was published, the Justice Department filed suit against Texas and its governor.

He says in the text that Texas had to get permission before placing any structure on the Rio Grande and asks the court to order the Southern State to remove it.

“We must all recognize that there are laws and policies in place — both domestic and international — to ensure the safety of anyone working, living or traveling along the river. These laws cannot be ignored,” Austin federal prosecutor Jaime Esparza said in a statement.