"Texas Gov. Abbott Clarifies Stance on Border Control Amid 'Shooting' Migrants Controversy"

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott defended his comment about stopping short of shooting migrants at the border, stating that he was pointing out what would be illegal to do. Critics condemned his remarks, with the Texas Democratic Party chairman suggesting that the only thing stopping Abbott from ordering law enforcement to shoot migrants is the fear of murder charges. Mexico's Secretary of Foreign Relations office also condemned Abbott's comments, expressing concern over any expression that encourages violent acts and dehumanization of the migrant community. Additionally, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker sent a letter to Abbott pleading for "mercy" and urging him to stop busing people from the border to Illinois as it faces a dangerous winter storm and subzero temperatures.