Governor Greg Abbott participated in a fireside chat with the Texas Law Federalist Society at The University of Texas in Austin. The focus of the discussion was on the state's legal and economic policies, which Abbott claims have resulted in a thriving economy and an appealing business environment in Texas.
Governor Abbott emphasized the importance of using legal frameworks effectively. "We must use the law as both a sword and shield," he stated. He underscored the necessity of promptly enacting policies, leading to the establishment of a new court of appeals. This court features expert judges who handle matters swiftly, ensuring that government actions in business contexts are efficient and effective. Abbott described these new business courts as attractive to enterprises considering relocation to Texas. He also highlighted the vital role of today's legal professionals, asserting that by participating actively, the next generation of lawyers will contribute to restoring law and order both in Texas and nationwide.
The discussion was moderated by Jim Davis, the interim President of UT Austin, and Jordan Lamb, President of the Texas Law Federalist Society. Governor Abbott drew attention to Texas' Fifteenth Court of Appeals, known for its expedited resolutions of complex commercial disputes. He also discussed the impact of Operation Lone Star, aimed at countering what he referred to as "the Biden Administration’s reckless open border policies." According to Abbott, the operation involved deploying Texas National Guard soldiers, installing buoys and miles of razor wire, and constructing a state-funded border wall, reducing illegal crossings by 85%.