Gov. Braun directs new batch of Indiana National Guard troops to U.S.-Mexico border: Report

Republican Governor Mike Braun has ordered 50 Indiana National Guard soldiers to deploy to the U.S.-Mexico border at the request of Texas Governor Greg Abbott. The soldiers departed from Camp Atterbury near Indianapolis on Wednesday, continuing a mission identical to one initiated by former Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb a year ago. That previous deployment cost Indiana taxpayers $7.1 million, but the cost of this current mission remains unclear, writes NWI.com.

The Indiana National Guard stated that this deployment supports Texas officials in their border security efforts, including assisting the Texas Department of Public Safety and Border Patrol in turning back illegal immigrants. Among the soldiers is Sgt. Ryan Jensen of LaPorte, who extended his deployment from the previous mission.