In Texas, the fervor of patriotism was palpable as "God's Army," a convoy making its way to the southern border, rallied in Dripping Springs with a promise to "take our country back." Former Alaskan Governor Sarah Palin spurred the crowd on, stating, "The eyes of the world are on Texas right now," as reported by The New York Post. In a turnout that overran original expectations, over a thousand individuals gathered, flag-draped and resolute, to hear Palin denounce the federal government for what she characterized as sanctioning an invasion.
The "Take Our Border Back" rally, packed with cars and trucks waving American and Trump flags, signaled a rising tension between Texas and federal authorities over the control of border areas. Palin took to the stage, declaring, “We’re going to take our country back,” in a charged atmosphere flush with spirited chants and merchandise bearing bold slogans. Singer-songwriter Ted Nugent lent his guitar to the cause, strumming the national anthem and branding himself as "a radical" who dares to fiercely experiment with self-government. In a statement obtained by KXAN, he pulled no punches, calling President Joe Biden a "devil scum snake" to roaring approval from the attendants.
Rally organizer Robert Agee highlighted the peaceful intent of the gathering, reminding the participants to not engage with migrants crossing the border. Agee, forewarning attendees previously to leave firearms and tactical gear at home, addressed the crowd: "This is a nation founded on immigrants. But it’s the bad actors coming across wanting to do harm, and that’s why the border needs to be fixed," as told to The New York Post.
Amidst escalating conflicts over jurisdiction at Shelby Park in Eagle Pass, Palin's rhetoric dovetailed with the actions of the Texas National Guard, which has forcibly taken control and deployed razor wire to stem the flow of migrants. Despite the legal decision, Texas officials continue to prevent federal agents from entering the disputed area. The group, which began their journey in Virginia, has been steadily reinforced by supporters from across the nation, aiming to culminate their protest with a slated rally in Quemado, reported KXAN.
The convoy, self-dubbed as "God's Army," has its sights set to prayerfully and peacefully make their stand at the border, invigorated by voices like Palin's and Nugent's, and roaring chants of "Build the wall" led by Texas Rep. Carrie Isaac, reminiscent of former President Donald Trump's rallying cry. This movement marks yet another chapter in the ongoing and tumultuous debate over border security and state versus federal authority in matters of immigration and homeland protection.
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