AUSTIN, Texas — Governor Greg Abbott announced late Tuesday that the Texas National Guard will be deployed to multiple locations across the state to support local and state law enforcement in response to anticipated protests.
In a post on social media, Abbott stated the move was aimed at ensuring “peace and order.” The Guard is positioned to assist the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) where necessary.
“Peaceful protest is legal,” Abbott said. “Harming a person or property is illegal & will lead to arrest.”
Austin and San Antonio Prepare for Potential Unrest
On Wednesday, Austin Mayor Kirk Watson confirmed the city had been notified of the Guard’s readiness to assist DPS during demonstrations scheduled for Saturday, if conditions warrant. The San Antonio Police Department also acknowledged that Guard units had been sent to their city, though further details were not provided.
This follows recent events in Austin, where 13 individuals were arrested and four police officers were injured during an anti-ICE protest downtown.
State Officials Emphasize Accountability
Andrew Mahaleris, Press Secretary for Governor Abbott, reiterated the administration’s stance in a statement to KXAN:
“The State of Texas stands ready to deploy all necessary personnel and resources to uphold law and order across our state. Texas National Guard soldiers are on standby in areas where mass demonstrations are planned in case they are needed.”
Mahaleris added that while peaceful protests are a protected right, acts of violence or property damage will not be tolerated and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
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