Miller issued his statement as Abbott endorsed an opponent in a race for re-election. Both are Republicans.
“The New World screwworm is inching closer to Texas each and every day, and we must be proactive in responding to this threat,” Miller said. “This fight requires every available resource to be thrown at it without delay, and TDA will continue to work alongside our state and federal partners to protect our livestock, pets, wildlife, and Texas communities.”
According to USDA, Mexico has 870 active cases involving animals as of Jan. 20, 2026, including eight active cases in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas, which borders Texas. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also reports Mexico has 24 people hospitalized after being infected by NWS larvae.
Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association President Carl Ray Polk Jr. said his group “applauds Gov. Abbott and his team as they ensure Texas is prepared to respond to a potential incursion of New World screwworm.”
“Today’s announcement positions our state to respond appropriately, allowing the Texas Animal Health Commission and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to utilize all available state government resources necessary to combat the pest,” Polk said.
“Gov. Abbott understands the importance of protecting the U.S. beef supply and it’s clear he is committed to pushing New World screwworm back to the Darien Gap, a milestone Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association continues to prioritize. We are thankful for his leadership and for standing with Texas livestock producers and landowners.”
DTN Ag Policy Editor Chris Clayton contributed to this report.
Also see, “USDA Launches $100M Screwworm Challenge,” https://www.dtnpf.com/…
Abbott’s proclamation: https://gov.texas.gov/…
NWS status from USDA: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/…
Jerry Hagstrom can be reached at jhagstrom@nationaljournal.com
Follow him on social platform X @hagstromreport
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