Lone Star Justice: Abbott’s Laws Send a Strong Message to Beijing
Texas Governor Greg Abbott is determined to protect the Lone Star State from the influence of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). In a trifecta of executive orders issued this week, Abbott flexed his determination to counteract espionage, cyberattacks, and harassment orchestrated by Beijing.
Abbott signed Executive Order No. GA-49. The new order is designed to protect Texas’ critical infrastructure from the growing risk of cyberattacks. State agencies will now need to assess system vulnerabilities, carry out detailed simulations of potential cyberattacks, and develop a robust contingency plan to quickly restore the electric grid if it becomes a target. This isn’t paranoia—state-sponsored groups like Volt Typhoon have allegedly spent years infiltrating U.S. systems, compromising everything from transportation to water facilities. Abbott made it clear: “China has made it clear that they can—and will—target and attack America’s critical infrastructure.”
Next, Abbott tackled espionage with Executive Order No. GA-48, which banned state agencies from working with companies tied to hostile foreign governments. Colleges and universities aren’t spared either—faculty are barred from participating in foreign recruitment programs like China’s controversial Thousand Talents Program. The FBI has flagged such initiatives as pipelines for intellectual property theft, making Abbott’s crackdown more than a political statement.
Abbott’s earlier order, No. GA-47 zeroed in on CCP harassment of Chinese dissidents in Texas. Partnering with the FBI, the state will investigate and arrest individuals involved in transnational repression. Advocacy groups like the Campaign for Uyghurs have lauded the decision, emphasizing China’s longstanding history of suppressing dissent overseas.
Texas Congressman Michael McCaul praised Abbott’s decision. McCaul stated, “We cannot sit idly by while China attempts to infiltrate our country and harm U.S. national security.” Abbott’s orders send a clear message: Texas isn’t just a state—it’s a fortress.
The CCP may think it can play games with U.S. systems and citizens, but Abbott’s stance is proving one thing: Texas doesn’t mess around, especially when it comes to protecting its people from foreign threats.