The election of Democrat Gina Hinojosa as Texas’ next governor has set off alarm bells among border security advocates who fear an imminent rollback of outgoing Governor Greg Abbott’s hardline immigration policies. At stake is Operation Lone Star – the controversial $4 billion initiative that deployed thousands of National Guard troops and state police to intercept migrants crossing from Mexico.
The Countdown to Policy Reversal
Hinojosa, who previously opposed funding for the operation as a state representative from Austin, has signaled she won’t renew the emergency powers underpinning the program. Sources tell Breitbart News the new administration intends to wind down operations by July 2026. This comes as migrant caravans in Central America reportedly reorganize, with some leaders openly anticipating relaxed enforcement under Democratic leadership.
Local Law Enforcement Backlash
Major Texas cities are already distancing themselves from immigration enforcement. Houston and Austin police departments received directives from their Democrat mayors to cease cooperation with ICE during routine traffic stops – a practice previously mandated under Abbott. “This is precisely the kind of soft-on-borders approach that incentivizes dangerous crossings,” said Ammon Blair of the Texas Public Policy Foundation, noting recent increases in caravan activity tracking through Honduras.
Security Vacuum Concerns
Proponents argue Operation Lone Star’s aerial surveillance, horse patrols, and specialized brush crews successfully plugged gaps in federal border protection. Department of Homeland Security officials maintain there’s “ZERO chance” of reversing border controls, but skeptics point to the program’s role in disrupting cartel operations. “Remove these deterrents, and you’ll see immediate consequences – more drugs, more human trafficking, more violent criminals slipping through,” warned Blair.
The incoming administration hasn’t detailed alternative border security plans beyond Hinojosa’s campaign promise to reallocate funds toward “community policing.” With Texas historically receiving the brunt of illegal border crossings, the policy shift could test Homeland Security’s ability to maintain order without state support.
Source: www.breitbart.com โ https://www.breitbart.com/immigration/2026/11/11/democrat-takeover-of-texas-threatens-biden-style-migrant-flood/