Trump, Abbott serve Thanksgiving dinner to Operation Lone Star service members

Former President Donald J. Trump joined Gov. Greg Abbott in Edinburg near the southern border with Mexico to serve Thanksgiving dinner to those serving in Operation Lone Star (OLS). This event occurred on the Thanksgiving holiday, showing gratitude towards service members from the two Republican leaders. Trump and Abbott, both Republicans, fed more than 240 Texas National Guard soldiers, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers, and other service members sent to the border, the Office of the Texas Governor said.

The Governor's office highlighted the importance of recognizing service member's efforts during this period. The governor added that the public should remember the sacrifices the men and women serving in OLS make daily to ensure the safety and security of the state and country, according to a press release.

In addition to sharing a meal with service members, political endorsements were also part of this occasion. The Texas Tribune reported that Abbott also announced his endorsement of Trump for 2024's White House race. As he served as 45th commander-in-chief from 2017-2021, Trump is now leading a crowded field aiming at replacing Biden as 47th president. "Mr. Governor, I am going to make your job much easier," Trump said according to an online outlet. "You’ll be able to focus on other things in Texas."

It's worth noting how political alignment within Republican circles may potentially influence future elections. According to The Texas Tribune, Trump maintains a growing lead among Republicans in both Texas and across U.S., running against notable figures like Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley – former ambassador to United Nations (UN) and ex-governor of South Carolina.