South Central PA News

Sen. Doug Mastriano, chair of the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, has called for Pennsylvania National Guard troops to be deployed to Texas in support of Operation Lone Star. This operation was initiated by Texas Governor Greg Abbott in response to the surge in illegal immigration, aiming to detect and repel illegal crossings, arrest human smugglers and cartel gang members, and halt the flow of dangerous drugs like fentanyl.

Mastriano emphasized the impact of the federal government's policies on the crisis at the southern border, stating, "Every state is now a border state. Pennsylvania has a compelling interest to help secure the southern border of the United States." He highlighted the consequences of illegal immigration in Pennsylvania, such as the proliferation of fentanyl, burdened school districts, and diverted social safety net funds.

According to a 2023 report, Pennsylvania is home to at least 251,000 illegal immigrants, placing an annual burden of over $1.6 billion on taxpayers. Mastriano drew attention to the significant cost of illegal immigration, exceeding the combined budgets of multiple state departments and agencies. He emphasized that securing the border is a bipartisan priority and called on Governor Josh Shapiro to deploy National Guard troops and resources to assist with Operation Lone Star.

Mastriano invoked the historical significance of the National Guard in Pennsylvania, founded by Benjamin Franklin over 276 years ago for the common defense of the state in times of crisis. He argued that the lawlessness at the southern border and its impact on Pennsylvanians constituted a crisis that warranted this response.

Abbott has previously sent letters to governors seeking support for Operation Lone Star, and 14 states have already responded by deploying personnel and resources to secure the border. Mastriano urged Pennsylvania to join these efforts and emphasized the role of the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee in overseeing the planning and activities of the Pennsylvania National Guard.

For more information about Sen. Doug Mastriano, constituents of the 33rd Senatorial District can visit his website at SenatorMastriano.com or follow him on Facebook at Facebook.com/SenatorDougMastriano.

Media contact: Josh Herman, 717-787-4651