Washington, DC – Ranking Member Lamar Smith (R-TX) issued the following statement in response to reports today that the Obama administration will deploy 1,200 National Guard troops to the U.S./Mexico border:

Ranking Member Smith:  “I’m pleased that the President finally appears to recognize the serious problems with crime and threats to public safety along our border with Mexico.  

“The announcement is long-overdue.   While it is a step in the right direction, it falls short of what the Governors – the folks on the ground – have requested to protect the residents of their states.  It does not include, for example, air support that both Governor Perry and Governor Brewer have asked for. 

“The American people remain concerned that the administration is not serious about securing the border.  Today’s announcement is a first step to address the American people’s concerns, but it cannot be the last.”

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