In a move to bolster security at the Republican National Convention following a recent assassination attempt on President Trump, Governor Greg Abbott announced the deployment of Texas law enforcement officers to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The contingent from the Lone Star State is there to provide support and ensure the safety of those attending the convention. Governor Abbott's office, in a release, stated, "Texas has deployed law enforcement personnel to the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee to ensure there are ample security resources present to safeguard attendees."
More than 100 Texas officers have joined forces with local authorities in Wisconsin during a time of increased national tensions, as the nation reels from both the assassination attempt and the loss of innocent lives. "As the nation continues to process the assassination attempt on President Donald Trump and grieve the tragic loss of innocent life, now more than ever, it is critical that we stand together to protect our fellow Americans against those who wish us harm," said Governor Abbott as part of a statement obtained by the official press release. The governor also expressed Texas's readiness to extend a similar hand of assistance for the upcoming Democratic National Convention in August if requested.
The deployment, which began on July 13 and slated to conclude on July 19, involves officers from several departments across Texas. The participating agencies include Austin Police Department, which sent 27 officers, Dallas Police Department's 13 members, Fort Worth Police Department contributing the largest number with 46 officers, and McAllen Police Department dispatching 19 of its finest. It is made possible through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), a mutual aid agreement that allows states to assist each other during emergencies, ensuring that personnel are protected and costs are compensated.
Officials in Wisconsin are expected to reimburse the mission-related expenses under the terms of EMAC, whose more information can be found at their website.
