The Texas National Guard has been placed on standby as protests against the Trump administration’s immigration raids are expected across the state. Governor Greg Abbott’s spokesperson, Andrew Mahaleris, said the move is in response to concerns over potential violence.

“Texas will not tolerate the lawlessness we have seen in Los Angeles,” Mahaleris stated. “Anyone engaging in acts of violence or damaging property will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

Protest actions are planned throughout the week. The group FIEL (Immigrant Families and Students in the Fight) is organizing a “Chant Down the Walls” protest in Houston on Friday. On Saturday, “No Kings” protests are scheduled in over two dozen cities, including Austin, Lubbock, and Longview.

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson expressed support for peaceful protests but warned against violence. “People have the right to protest, but destruction and violence are unacceptable,” he said. Watson also criticized Washington’s immigration policies, accusing them of fueling fear and division.

Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez urged demonstrators to uphold Houston’s long tradition of peaceful protest. “I fully expect Saturday’s events to reflect that legacy,” he noted. Most of Houston falls within Harris County.

In San Antonio, Police Chief William McManus confirmed that National Guard personnel had arrived, though Mayor Ron Nirenberg said he was not informed in advance. “I trust our community to express themselves peacefully,” Nirenberg said.

Protests began last week in Los Angeles and have since spread nationwide. On Monday, California filed a lawsuit against the federal government after President Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles without state approval.