Texas begins border wall construction in Starr County after Biden halt

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has initiated a new border wall project in Starr County, responding to the Biden-Harris administration's halt of construction on previously approved projects from the Trump era. Abbott emphasized that Texas is committed to securing its border, stating that the state will continue building the wall until federal authorities take action. The governor's administration has been actively seeking to reclaim land previously seized for border wall construction and has begun utilizing surplus materials from the federal government to construct the wall. In September 2021, construction commenced on Texas-funded border walls on privately owned land, with the consent of landowners. This move came after Abbott's demands for the federal government to return seized land. The governor has also restarted projects that were canceled by the Biden administration in September 2022. Abbott noted that the materials being used for the wall were originally contracted during the Trump administration, and Texas has been acquiring these materials through federal surplus programs. Despite the Biden administration's efforts to halt border wall construction, Abbott's administration has found ways to continue the project. The federal government has since stopped selling abandoned border wall materials to Texas, which Abbott claims has hindered their efforts. The Biden administration's decision to cease construction has resulted in significant costs, with approximately $6 million per day spent on storing materials and leaving construction sites idle. The ongoing border wall construction in Texas highlights the state's determination to address border security independently of federal actions. Abbott's statements reflect a broader political divide regarding immigration policy and border security, with Texas positioning itself as a leader in the fight for stricter border control.