Gov. Abbott deploys over 5,000 National Guard troops across Texas ahead of planned ‘No Kings’ protests

HOUSTON – With planned protests across the state, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced just how many troops he plans to deploy as security ramps up ahead of planned demonstrations this weekend.

RELATED: How Houston is preparing for potential protests as nationwide movement grows

In a statement, Abbott confirmed he deployed 2,000 Texas DPS troopers and more than 5,000 National Guard soldiers across Texas to assist law enforcement officials responding to protests this weekend.

It’s unclear how many troops will be deployed in Houston during a “No Kings” demonstration, scheduled for Saturday.

“Peaceful protests are part of the fabric of our nation, but Texas will not tolerate the lawlessness we have seen in Los Angeles in response to President Donald Trump’s enforcement of immigration law,” said Governor Abbott. “Anyone engaging in acts of violence or damaging property will be arrested and held accountable to the full extent of the law. Don’t mess with Texas — and don’t mess with Texas law enforcement.”

MORE: Where ‘No Kings’ protests will take place across Houston, Southeast Texas on Saturday, June 14

This update comes just days after the governor shared a video on social media, just moments before signing a law meant to protect law enforcement officers at the protests.

“Our law enforcement officers are on the frontlines to KEEP Texas a law and order state,“ Abbott said in the post. ”To have their back, I am signing a law to ensure they can use every tool available to combat criminals without being targeted by rogue prosecutors."

SEE ALSO: Downtown Houston No Kings immigration protest to counter Flag Day parade on Trump’s 79th birthday

Sunday’s demonstration in Houston’s Montrose area was peaceful, but with videos circulating about heated protests in Los Angeles, it certainly warrants consideration of how leaders are preparing.

This also comes on the heels of a back-and-forth between President Donald Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom on deploying National Guard troops and other military officials to quell demonstrators.

“Peaceful protest is legal. Harming a person or property is illegal & will lead to arrest,” Abbott noted on X. “@TexasGuard will use every tool & strategy to help law enforcement maintain order.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

This is a developing story and will continue to be updated as more information becomes available.