Texas in State of Emergency

Washington, Sep 22, 2005 -  Today, U.S. Representative John R. Carter joined his fellow Texas colleagues, from both sides of the aisle, in sending a letter to President George W. Bush declaring a state of emergency along the Texas/Mexico border.

“I share the frustrations and worries of my fellow Texans. The amount of drug trafficking and violence along the border has been rapidly increasing,” said Carter. “We can no longer overlook what is happening on the Texas/Mexico border.”

The letter calls for the return of 165 Texas Border Agents that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) assigned to the Tucson Sector in Arizona. It also expresses concerns about the illegal aliens other than Mexicans crossing the border and the threats they possess.

“I want to thank Congressman Henry Bonilla for taking the lead on the letter and this issue. He and his constituents are on the frontlines of this problem,” said Carter.

In addition, the letter lists suggestions for Secretary Michael Chertoff to take into consideration when developing his long term plan for securing our nation’s border. For example, the letter suggests that unused DHS funding should go towards hiring more sheriff’s deputies in border counties.

"Border Security has brought together colleagues from both sides of the aisle. I'd especially like to take my hat off to Congressman Carter. He's been a great leader on this issue and his efforts are valued and appreciated," said Congressman Henry Bonilla.