Texas National Guard deputized to make immigration arrests

President Donald Trump’s administration has struck a deal with the Texas National Guard to grant them expanded authority to make immigration arrests this past weekend. Texas Governor Greg Abbott confirmed the agreement on social media, noting that it would enhance manpower for border security. Under this new arrangement, Texas National Guard troops are permitted to arrest undocumented immigrants as long as a U.S. immigration officer or Border Patrol agent is present. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has not yet responded to requests for comment from Fox News Digital.

Governor Abbott emphasized that the deal went into effect immediately as of Sunday night. This development is just the latest in President Trump’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal immigration across the country. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other border security agencies have ramped up their deportation activities since Trump took office.

President Trump’s 2024 campaign centered on promises to curb illegal immigration, particularly the surge that occurred during the Biden administration. The 47th President vowed to deport migrants, including those with criminal histories or ties to criminal organizations. On his first day of his second term, Trump issued ten executive orders aimed at revamping U.S. immigration laws and policies. In less than a week back in the Oval Office, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling his campaign promises.

“Within hours of taking the oath of office, I declared a national emergency at our southern border. I deployed active duty troops to assist in repelling the invasion, with Tom Homan leading the charge. We immediately halted all illegal entry and began sending border violators back to their home countries. I also signed an order designating cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, a significant step that Biden failed to take,” Trump stated at a recent rally.

Federal officials reported the deportation of approximately 7,300 illegal immigrants in the first week of Trump’s administration alone. The collaboration between President Trump’s administration and Governor Abbott underscores their shared commitment to curbing illegal immigration and enhancing border security.

Anders Hagstrom is a reporter with Fox News Digital covering national politics and major breaking news events. For tips, contact Anders.Hagstrom@Fox.com or connect on Twitter: @Hagstrom_Anders.