The border crisis turns everything it touches to ash. Fort Stockton is no exception. What was once a getaway from big Texas cities is now a hub for highspeed chases, property damage, and migrant bailouts. People here should not have to live in a state of constant worry. That is why I have worked side by side with Pecos County officials like Sheriff T.J. Perkins to take a stand and end this chaos.

Together, we have set out to address the problem at its source—the cartels.

For three years, these criminal organizations have been empowered by the Biden administration’s open border policies. In partnership with leaders like Sheriff Perkins, I introduced The Security First Act to put a check on their operations. This legislation labels the cartels for what they are---terrorist organizations— and provides law enforcement with the tools they need to go after them.

It also increases funding for a border security program known as Operation Stonegarden. This federal grant supports partnerships between local law enforcement and Border Patrol in their fight against illegal immigration. Recently, I was proud to announce that our congressional district received more Stonegarden funding than any other in the country.

The border crisis has also strained police departments beyond their means. That’s why I fought for and secured federal dollars for the Fort Stockton Police Department to purchase new police cruisers. Equipping our officers with the tools they need to get the job done will always be one of my top priorities. I was also proud to secure an overtime pay raise for our Border Patrol Agents this year. The added compensation will support their efforts as they work around the clock to hold the line.

That said, everyday residents are also faced with the impacts of this crisis. Barbed wire fences are regularly cut and vandalized. Barns and storage sheds are taken over and used as shelter by migrants. These costs come out of pocket for landowners and add up to a hefty price tag.

After introducing legislation to fix this problem, I took the issue to task and worked with the USDA to create a reimbursement account for damages like these. Though more needs to be done, these funds are a step in the right direction to hold the Biden Administration accountable.

As a 20-year Navy veteran and retired Master Chief, my mission has always been to find solutions, not excuses. I am fortunate to have partners like Sheriff Perkins in the fight to secure our borders. We won’t let up until we win.

Congressman Tony Gonzales, a Republican, represents Texas’ 23rd Congressional District which includes 42% of the US-Mexico border and stretches from El Paso to San Antonio. T.J. Perkins is the Pecos County Sheriff.