As the Republican primary election draws closer, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has endorsed Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential bid.

“Now more than ever, America needs a President who will secure the border and prioritize national security,” said Abbott.

Abbott made the announcement Sunday afternoon at the South Texas International Airport at Edinburg.

“I am going to make your job much easier,” Trump told Abbott, promising to secure the border when he take office again.

“You’re going to be getting back to normal governing. Things like streets and education and medical. You’re not going to have to worry about the border anymore,” said Trump.

Most of Trump’s brief comments revolved around the crisis at the southern border, which has hit record levels since Joe Biden took office in 2021.

“We have the most insecure border in the history, I believe really, of the world.” said Trump “I don’t think there’s ever been a country in history that’s had a border where millions and millions and millions of people are flowing into our country.”

The endorsement comes over a year since Trump announced his plans to seek a second term. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, Attorney General Ken Paxton, Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, and Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham all endorsed Trump early.

“He’s not free and easy with endorsements,” Trump joked.

Abbott’s endorsement bucks many of his largest donors. S. Javaid Anwar, who has given Abbott nearly $7 million, has split his support between Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley; Edward Roski Jr. and Kelcy Warren have both supported DeSantis; and John Nau, who serves as Abbott’s campaign treasurer, has donated to Stand for America, Haley’s Political Action Committee.

Earlier in the day, Abbott and Trump served meals to DPS officers and national guard stationed at the border who would not be home for Thanksgiving.

Abbott is the seventh governor to endorse Trump ahead of the Republican primary election next year.

Texas’ primary election will take place on March 5, 2024.

Brandon Waltens

Brandon serves as the Senior Editor for Texas Scorecard. After managing successful campaigns for top conservative legislators and serving as a Chief of Staff in the Texas Capitol, Brandon moved outside the dome in order to shine a spotlight on conservative victories and establishment corruption in Austin. @bwaltens

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