Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has escalated his criticism of Texas Governor Greg Abbott and the Republican Party, urging Hispanic voters in the U.S. not to support them. This follows Abbott's deployment of a floating barrier of buoys in the Rio Grande to deter illegal crossings.

Lopez Obrador specifically called on Hispanics to reject Abbott and any Republicans supporting the buoy initiative during a press conference. He views the barrier as a contentious measure targeting migrants.

Texas authorities maintain that the buoys will discourage dangerous crossings of the Rio Grande. The system is expected to be fully deployed within two weeks. Texas DPS director Steve McCraw emphasized the inherent risks of crossing the river, highlighting the buoys as a deterrent.

However, Mexico has formally protested the barrier, claiming it might violate international treaties regarding boundaries and water usage. Mexican officials intend to inspect the Rio Grande to determine if the barrier encroaches on Mexican territory.

This isn't the first time Lopez Obrador has weighed in on U.S. elections. Last year, he discouraged voting for Abbott, and earlier this year, he launched an "information campaign" against Republicans advocating for stronger action against drug cartels. He has accused Republicans of exploiting Mexico for political gain, disrespecting its sovereignty, and promoting inhumane policies.

Lopez Obrador has also criticized U.S. lawmakers while seeking assistance from China to combat fentanyl trafficking. He attributes some U.S. issues to a "loss of values" and considers certain U.S. stances disrespectful and threatening to Mexican sovereignty.

More recently, he targeted Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, accusing him of anti-immigrant policies and urging Hispanic voters in Florida to reject him in the 2024 elections.