Van de Putte Continues to Be Part of the Problem
AUSTIN – Dan Patrick, Texas State Senator and Republican nominee for Lieutenant Governor, has made border security a top issue in his campaign. His opponent, Leticia Van de Putte, has opposed efforts to secure the border.
Data compiled in a new report from the Texas Department of Public Safety shows the dramatic increase in illegal border crossings, the enormous quantity of drugs seized, and the gang and cartel components driving much of the illegal activity. The report also documents the impact of recent surge activity by the DPS and State Guard.
“On the anniversary of 9/11, we are reminded of the tragedy that struck the nation,” said Dan Patrick. “Foreign terrorists came to this country with evil intentions. National security begins with border security. In Texas we know full well that our border is not secure. This new report supports what I’ve said throughout my campaign.
“We have caught over a quarter-million people crossing the Texas-Mexico border so far this year. Some estimate that we only apprehend 1 in 5 of those crossing illegally. If that estimate is true, there could have been as many as 1,000,000 who crossed our border undetected.
“Leticia Van de Putte called the mobilization of the National Guard a ‘militarization of the border.’ Rest assured, the cartels and gangs are armed and outfitted like a paramilitary organization, complete with military grade weapons and equipment.
“It’s time we secured the border. I am the only candidate for Lieutenant Governor who will deliver on this promise.”
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