Texas Gov. Abbott Declares State of Disaster Amid Floyd Protests

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has declared a state of disaster due to the violence in cities around the state protesting the death of George Floyd.

Abbott, a Republican, issued the measure in response to "threats and incidents of violence in several cities across Texas that have endangered public safety."

"As protests have turned violent in various areas across the state, it is crucial that we maintain order, uphold public safety, and protect against property damage or loss," Abbott wrote in a statement on Sunday. "By authorizing additional federal agents to serve as Texas Peace Officers we will help protect people's safety while ensuring that peaceful protesters can continue to make their voices heard."

Abbott on Saturday deployed the Texas National Guard and the Department of Public Safety sent more than 1,500 officers to assist local police departments.

The resources will go to Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio to "ensure peaceful protest."

On Sunday, Abbott tweeted:

"Texas and America mourn the senseless loss of George Floyd and the actions that led to his death are reprehensible and should be condemned in the strongest terms possible."

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