The Department of Justice on Monday sued the state of Texas and Gov. Greg Abbott over a floating barrier intended to deter migrants from crossing the Rio Grande. In a letter sent to Abbott’s administration last Thursday, the department threatened legal action over the buoys, arguing, “Texas’ unauthorized construction of the floating barrier is a prima facie violation of the Rivers and Harbors Act. This floating barrier poses a risk to navigation, as well as public safety, in the Rio Grande River, and it presents humanitarian concerns.” Defying the legal threat, Abbott responded by accusing President Joe Biden of trying to fetter his state’s “sovereign authority” over the border. “Texas will see you in court, Mr. President,” he added. The White House called Abbott’s defiance “dangerous and unlawful,” as well as “cruel and putting both migrants and border agents in danger.”
