The border Texas shares with Mexico is not just a state concern—it’s a national security issue for the entire United States. Protecting it is essential to both our national safety and our state sovereignty simultaneously. As an ex-Navy SEAL and one who knows what it’s like to be behind a gun, I’m prepared to make update and instill practices to keep Texas safe for generations to come

While the federal government has a duty to secure America’s borders, Texas must be ready and able to defend itself—with or without federal assistance and stand on its own two feet.

As Governor, I will ensure that Texas builds, maintains and controls a secure border that protects our people and preserves our independence. We will make Texas self-sufficient, strong and capable of defending our land and our citizens without relying on outside help. Any improvements we make will be built to last for decades, keeping Texas impenetrable and secure for generations.

My border plan will keep Texans safe—with or without the involvement of the U.S. military.

This plan includes:

• A strong, fortified border with modern infrastructure and technology
• Advanced surveillance systems to monitor and respond to threats in real time
• Empowering the Texas National Guard by removing restrictive policies that prevent them from doing their job effectively
  

We must give our defenders the authority, training and tools they need to combat the growing threats from drug cartels and organized criminal networks operating from Mexico and beyond. You can’t bring a knife to a gunfight—and Texas won’t. Yet, that is what we currently do.

As Governor and Commander-in-Chief of the Texas National Guard, ex-Navy SEAL and someone who knows what it’s like to be behind a gun, I’m prepared to use my training to keep Texas safe for generations to come. These measures will not be temporary—they will be lasting rules of engagement that protect and preserve our safety, our freedom and our way of life. I know that sometimes it takes a good offense to made a good defense.

Texas will stand strong, sovereign and secure—for generations to come.