Missouri Governor Mike Parson has taken a bold step by deploying up to 200 National Guard members and 22 state highway patrol troopers to the southern border, answering Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s call for support. Parson’s decision comes after witnessing the crisis firsthand during a border visit two months ago, and he places the blame squarely on President Biden’s “open-border policies.”
The governor emphasized the urgent need for action, citing the devastating impact of the fentanyl crisis on Missouri families and communities. He called on the Biden administration to “step up” and address the crisis, declaring that “Missouri will act” by deploying its own resources to secure the nation’s border.
National Guard Troops
Parson joins a growing list of Republican governors who are taking matters into their own hands, dipping into their states’ emergency funds to support Abbott’s efforts. The move comes as the Texas National Guard continues to build razor-wire barriers along the border, defying a recent Supreme Court decision.
The deployment of Missouri troops will begin by March 10, with guardsmen serving 30-day rotations. The state troopers will start active support by March 1. Parson has also requested a $2.3 million supplemental budget to support border security efforts and replenish the governor’s emergency response fund.
The situation highlights the ongoing political tensions surrounding border security, with Republicans and Democrats trading blame and accusations. Despite the challenges, Parson remains resolute in his commitment to securing the border and protecting Missourians from the devastating effects of the fentanyl crisis.
