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Governor Greg Abbott and First Lady Cecilia Abbott of Texas have extended their Christmas greetings to the residents of the Lone Star State. The message was conveyed through a short video clip recorded at the Governor’s Mansion in Austin, marking Abbott's ninth consecutive holiday season as governor.
In his Christmas Eve Tweet, Governor Abbott expressed his heartfelt wishes for the holiday season. "I want to wish all of you a very merry Christmas and happy holidays," he said. He further elaborated on the significance of this time of year, stating, "This holiday season is a time to be with family and loved ones, and reflect on our many blessings and to give back to our fellow Texans." In conclusion, Abbott extended his hopes for the coming year: "From our family to yours, we hope that you have a peaceful holiday season and a very happy New Year."
Despite the approaching high Christmas holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, Audacy reports that Abbott remained active in his official duties. He issued pardons to three Texans: 33-year-old Heather Christine Sherman convicted of marijuana possession in Collin County in 2010; 64-year-old Jerry Lynn Smith who had a theft conviction in Harris County in 1978; and 51-year-old Robert Phillip Marsh pardoned for a theft conviction in Midland County in 1990.
According to ABC News, on December 19th, Abbott arranged for 120 migrants to be transported via a Texas Department of Emergency Management (TDEM) chartered flight from El Paso to Chicago. This move was reportedly made in response to a Chicago city ordinance seeking to fine bus companies transporting migrants without notifying city leaders. A statement from the Office of the Texas Governor obtained by ABC News explained: "Because Mayor [Brandon] Johnson is failing to live up to his city's 'Welcoming City' ordinance by targeting migrant buses from Texas, we are expanding our operation to include flights to Chicago, like the Biden Administration has been doing across the country."
On his Twitter account, Abbott expressed gratitude to those serving in Operation Lone Star away from their loved ones during this Christmas season. "Texas is grateful for your service as you hold the line against the unprecedented crisis at our border," he tweeted.