Boycott Targets Texas Companies Over National Guard Deployment

Following President Donald Trump’s memorandum, Texas Governor Greg Abbott decided to authorize the deployment of hundreds of Texas National Guard troops to Illinois and Oregon to assist U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers. This decision has drawn criticism from leaders in both states. In response, some consumers across the U.S. are organizing a boycott of prominent Texas-based companies to protest.

The movement, referred to as the “Governor Abbott Boycott,” has gained traction online, with calls to avoid major Texas corporations such as Tesla, ExxonMobil, Southwest Airlines, and American Airlines. Protesters aim to use consumer pressure to influence Abbott’s immigration-related policies.

A 1903 federal law allows the president to mobilize the National Guard in cases of invasion, rebellion, or when federal law cannot be enforced through regular forces. However, some Democratic leaders argue that Abbott’s deployment lacks legal justification. While the National Guard is often used for disaster response, it has previously been deployed under Abbott for border enforcement, including Operation Lone Star in 2021.

Activists behind the boycott warn that any other state deploying its National Guard for similar purposes could also face economic backlash. 

According to CHRON, the boycott follows a broader trend of economic protest in Texas. In 2021, a law banning most abortions after six weeks led to opposition from various companies, who argued that such restrictions were harmful to business. In 2023, business leaders estimated that unclear medical exemptions in the law could be costing Texas $14.5 billion annually, prompting legislative clarification.

Despite the protests, Tesla recently reported increased sales, partially due to consumers seeking to take advantage of a $7,500 tax credit before its expiration on September 30. Gov. Abbott, meanwhile, continues to promote Texas’ economic growth.

In a recent statement from his Office, Abbott proclaimed 2025 Manufacturing Week in Texas, saying, “Thanks to our manufacturers, ‘Made in Texas’ has never been a more powerful brand. It is a symbol of freedom, opportunity, and innovation that can only be found in Texas.”