After a tragic mass shooting in Texas last week leading to the deaths of five individuals, including one child, Governor Greg Abbott issued a press release calling the victims "illegal immigrants". This move has been called out as a way to deflect attention from the issue of gun control in the state. Reports suggest that the shooter, Francisco Oropesa, had been deported multiple times in the past and should not have had access to firearms that led to the shooting, regardless of the immigration status of those involved.

One victim was reported to have legal immigration status, raising doubts about the accuracy of Abbott's press release even though his office later contradicted it. The Texas Governor is known for his pro-gun stance and vocal opposition to immigration, with critics pointing out that his use of words like "illegal immigrants" perpetuates and incites violence. This tactic is similar to rhetoric used by then-President Trump in 2019, which was echoed by a gunman who attacked a Walmart in El Paso. Abbott's press release comes at a time of heightened scrutiny of politicians and their responsibility in stemming gun violence in the country.