Hundreds of individuals gathered in Quemado, Texas, at a rural ranch to express their concerns over immigration and support for former President Trump’s potential 2024 candidacy. Dubbed the “Take Our Border Back” rally, attendees voiced opposition to what they perceive as a surge in illegal crossings along the nearby Rio Grande.
The rally, held on Friday, brought together a diverse crowd of individuals, with Trump 2024 flags flying alongside Christian banners. Participants emphasized their stance against lawlessness, framing their protest as a peaceful demonstration rooted in Christian values. Despite the presence of musical performances, vendors, and colorful attire, the stark contrast between the rally grounds and the heavily fortified border 20 miles south in Eagle Pass was evident, with razor wire and camouflage-clad personnel patrolling the area.
Initially advertised as a convoy of 700,000 trucks traveling from Virginia to various points along the border, the actual turnout was smaller, with around 200 vehicles estimated to have joined the rally upon reaching Texas. Notably, the exact number could not be independently verified by NBC News, which observed approximately 100 vehicles in attendance.
Dorothy Richards, a 67-year-old retiree from New Braunfels, expressed her support for Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s immigration policies, highlighting her concerns over the Biden administration’s approach to border security. Richards, among others, underscored the potential ramifications of unchecked immigration, with some even suggesting that it could escalate into civil unrest.
While reminiscent of a Trump rally, complete with MAGA hats and paraphernalia, the event also saw expressions of support for Trump’s speculated 2024 candidacy. Alma Arredondo-Lynch, 67, of Concan, Texas, voiced her belief in the importance of border sovereignty, cautioning against the influence of drug cartels in the region.
However, the rally was not without contention, as a small group of demonstrators, identifying themselves as Street Preachers, clashed with organizers over their anti-LGBTQ and Islamophobic signage. Despite efforts by rally organizers to distance themselves from such rhetoric, concerns lingered over the broader anti-immigration sentiments echoed by some attendees.
Governor Abbott’s hardline stance on immigration, coupled with Trump’s past remarks characterizing immigrants as detrimental to the nation, have stirred debate and drawn criticism. Nevertheless, supporters like Scotty Clay of Alpena, Arkansas, dismissed Trump’s rhetoric as calculated media strategy.
In contrast to the rally’s portrayal by organizers as a peaceful demonstration, Pastor Doug Pagitt of Vote Common Good warned of the potential for violence, citing the presence of fringe groups attracted to such gatherings. Pagitt emphasized the need for dialogue and cautioned against rhetoric that could incite division or undermine the rule of law.
As the rally unfolded, local residents like Marco Castillo expressed skepticism, questioning the timing and efficacy of the demonstration. Castillo, a 29-year-old from Eagle Pass, criticized the rally as mere spectacle, asserting that the enforcement efforts led by Governor Abbott were unnecessary and potentially counterproductive.
The gathering in Quemado underscores the deep-seated divisions and complex dynamics surrounding immigration policy in the United States, highlighting the challenges faced by policymakers and communities along the border.
