QUEMADO, Texas – Over the weekend, a large group of people gathered at a rural Texas ranch to denounce the influx of individuals crossing the border from the nearby Rio Grande. Fueled by Christian faith and a stance against lawlessness, the rally, known as “Take Our Border Back,” attracted a mix of musical performers, vendors, and political signs adorned with Trump 2024 flags.
The attendees, who arrived in a long convoy of personal vehicles and RVs, expressed a peaceful opposition to the current situation at the border. Led by a man on horseback carrying the Christian flag, the group made its way to the rally grounds, where they joined others who had gathered in support of Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s efforts to secure the border.
The event, initially billed to include 700,000 trucks from Virginia, ultimately drew around 200 vehicles in support of the cause. Among the attendees was Dorothy Richards, a retiree from New Braunfels, who voiced her support for Governor Abbott’s strong stance on immigration issues.
The clash over immigration enforcement between the Biden administration and Governor Abbott has spurred heated debate and actions, including the deployment of the Texas National Guard and the erection of razor wire along the border. While some rallygoers expressed concerns about illegal immigration, they emphasized the need for lawful entry into the country.
Despite some clashes with a few demonstrators holding anti-LGBTQ and Islamophobic signs, the overall atmosphere at the rally remained relatively calm. However, the rhetoric used by some politicians, including former President Trump and Governor Abbott, has raised concerns and drawn criticism from those who oppose their views.
As the rally came to a close, Pastor Doug Pagitt and other faith leaders expressed their differing perspectives on the issues surrounding immigration and border enforcement. The gathering, while largely peaceful, has sparked debates about the appropriate measures to address the challenges at the border.
The event in Quemado, Texas, underscored the ongoing intensity of the immigration debate and the diverse range of opinions on how best to address the situation at the border. As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains a topic of significant national interest and concern.