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() In a historic moment in Texas border security, the Texas National Guard has now been officially deputized under Title 8, giving them the authority to execute immigration enforcement duties.
On Friday, the first 300 Texas Military Department soldiers were sworn in, taking an oath to assist the Border Patrol in enforcing immigration laws.
Now, they can apprehend and detain individuals who cross illegally, no longer just monitoring and waiting for the Border Patrol to take action.
U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael W. Banks praised this move, saying it strengthens cooperation between federal and state forces to secure the border. He visited Rio Grande Valley sector agents, thanking them for their work.
Last month, the Texas National Guard, Texas DPS and Border Patrol carried out large-scale training exercises, deploying Black Hawk and Chinook helicopters along with 28 military trucks to showcase their tactical strength. During the operation, USBP confirmed they were working under Title 8 authority.
Officials say this step directly supports their ongoing operations and shows Texas state’s commitment to securing its borders.
The Texas DPS Brush Team, in partnership with Border Patrol, recently apprehended four migrants from Guatemala and Mexico trying to avoid capture near the Rio Grande. This operation was part of Operation Lone Star, which has played a major role in disrupting illegal crossings.
Right now, nearly 5,000 Texas Army and Air National Guard members are serving under Governor Greg Abbott’s Operation Lone Star, with another 1,500 National Guard troops from 15 states supporting federal efforts. Their role has expanded beyond surveillance, now staffing static and mobile observation posts, using thermal cameras and clearing brush to reduce hiding spots for smugglers.
State officials report a significant drop in illegal crossings, particularly in South Texas. On Monday, Lt. Chris Olivarez with Texas DPS reported only 230 illegal crossings in all of South Texas, a sharp decline compared to previous months.
Meanwhile, Texas continues to double down on security measures. Abbott announced that additional border buoys were installed in the Rio Grande on the same day President Trump returned to office, emphasizing that Texas is ramping up enforcement under a new federal administration.
Law enforcement officials say that while crossings are decreasing, smugglers are adapting, shifting routes through private ranch lands and using new tactics to avoid detection. With more boots on the ground and enhanced surveillance, authorities believe they are in a stronger position to intercept these operations.