Abbott Rules Out Border Wall at Big Bend

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott reiterated that there will be no border wall or fence built in Big Bend National Park, following discussions with Homeland Security and an apparent commitment from DHS staff to avoid such structures in the park. Reports note that U.S. Customs and Border Protection paused construction at Big Bend to review costs and gather stakeholder input, with Abbott portraying the pause as a result of his conversations with DHS. The broader Big Bend border project remains under review, with opponents including local residents and conservation groups warning that construction could harm the region’s tourism economy and environment. Supporters and Abbott emphasize pursuing alternative security measures such as technology and personnel rather than barriers in the park. Critics, including some Texas lawmakers and campaign voices, accuse Abbott of politically timing his declarations around an election while referencing earlier bulldozer actions in the park. Federal officials have not publicly commented on the project’s current status beyond the pause, as discussions continue on the path forward for securing the border elsewhere while preserving Big Bend’s landscape.