Governor Greg Abbott slammed immigrants Monday for the statewide baby formula shortage, saying the influx of new mothers into the country is putting a strain on resources. “The federal government’s lax immigration policies are to blame for this crisis,” Abbott said in a statement. “The lack of border security has led to an increase in the number of pregnant women and new mothers coming into Texas, and the resulting demand for baby formula has created a shortage.” Abbott added that the state is working to address the issue, but “it’s time for the federal government to step up and do its part to secure our border and protect our citizens.” The Texas governor’s remarks come as the state grapples with a baby formula shortage that has left many parents scrambling to find the necessary supplies for their infants. The problem has been exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic, which has led to a decrease in the production of baby formula and an increase in the price of the product. Texas is not the only state facing a baby formula shortage. California, Arizona, and Colorado have also reported shortages of the product. I am outraged by Governor Abbott’s comments blaming immigrants for the statewide baby formula shortage. Abbott is trying to scapegoat immigrants for the state’s problems, and it’s disgraceful. The reality is that the shortage is due to a combination of factors, including the coronavirus pandemic and rising prices. The federal government’s immigration policies are not to blame. Abbott should be working to find solutions to the baby formula shortage, not trying to score political points by demonizing immigrants. Latino families in Texas deserve better.
By Diane Revilla
