The Wars Waging in Texas

 

Despite an economic crisis looming and a global pandemic still raging, Texas Governor, Greg Abbott-R and Senator, Ted Cruz-R have several other issues in focus. The state's war on abortion and war on the southern border seem most pressing right now. In a quote on video from Greg Abbott, "Our job is to secure the health and safety and security of our constituents." this in regard to the southern border and desires to increase efforts to further secure it. What is probably more interesting about this quote- is it comes almost right after reports of a school shooting took place in his home state of Texas. On the topic of this same school shooting, media outlets pressed Texas Senator, Ted Cruz, where he quickly offered his condolences before immediately pivoting, claiming, "we are here today because of the Biden border crisis." 

Texas politicians seem to have a different idea when it comes to the "health and safety and security of" their constituents. This being even more true on the issue of the state's war on abortion. After the news broke of the federal court judge's ruling blocking Texas' abortion law, which "bans abortions after a heartbeat can be detected, which typically occurs around six weeks of pregnancy. It also gives private parties the ability to sue medical personnel who perform banned abortions or even anyone who "aids or abets it." (Source). Political leaders in the state have already claimed that they will be filing an appeal. Democrat and Republican politicians in Texas have continued their attacks on each other on the issues of gun safety and abortion access. 

Mass media show these political divisions within Texas with broader implications for the country, setting precedents for other states' policies on issues like immigration, abortion, and gun control.