Texas Governor Greg Abbott told attendees at the Republican National Committee's midterm convention in Dallas on Thursday that the state had filled a gap left by the previous administration on border security.

"When Joe Biden was president, Texas had to step into the breach," Abbott said. "And now, Texas has the toughest laws on immigration of anybody in any state in the United States of America!"

Governor Abbott spoke during the 5 p.m. Central Time hour of the two-day event at the American Airlines Center. The gathering focuses on Republican priorities ahead of the November midterms.

Texas has enacted multiple measures in recent years to address illegal immigration, including laws targeting human smuggling, fentanyl trafficking, and unauthorized crossings. Abbott has repeatedly credited state actions for results at the southern border.

Governor Abbott is seeking a fourth term in November against Democratic state Representative Gina Hinojosa. His appearance at the convention allows him to highlight his record to a national audience while supporting the broader Republican ticket.