Texas Governor Greg Abbott has unveiled an ambitious new initiative to strengthen the state’s cybersecurity defenses. In his recent State of the State address, Abbott announced the creation of a Texas Cyber Command, an unexpected yet pressing priority for the 89th Legislative Session.
“We must deploy cutting-edge capabilities to better secure our state,” Abbott declared, emphasizing the growing need to protect Texas from cyber threats posed by adversarial nations like China, Iran, and Russia, as well as other rogue actors.
Why Now?
Cybersecurity has been a concern for Texas for years. In 2020, Abbott addressed the issue following a ransomware attack on 23 local government entities, urging stronger cyber defenses across the state. More recently, a cyberattack—allegedly linked to a Russian hacking group—caused a Texas water tank to overflow, underscoring the vulnerability of critical infrastructure.
Texas has steadily increased its investments in cybersecurity. In 2023, the state allocated $17.4 million for cyber projects through the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP). A year later, Texas awarded a $170.9 million contract to Science Applications International Corporation for cybersecurity services aimed at bolstering the security of state agencies.
Now, Abbott is taking it a step further by establishing a dedicated cybersecurity force to defend Texas from digital threats.
Why San Antonio?
The Texas Cyber Command will be headquartered in San Antonio, a logical choice given the city’s deep ties to cybersecurity. Home to the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA)—a key partner in the U.S. Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) Academic Engagement Network—San Antonio has a robust cyber workforce and infrastructure.
In 2023, UTSA opened its $91.8 million National Security Collaboration Center, a hub for research in data science and national security. Local business leaders have welcomed Abbott’s decision, calling it a win for both cybersecurity and the Texas economy.
“This investment will not only enhance national security but also create jobs, fuel research, and strengthen economic growth,” said the Greater San Antonio Chamber in response to the announcement.
Legislative Push
While Abbott has set the vision, lawmakers will be responsible for turning it into reality. Rep. Giovanni Capriglione (R-Southlake) and Sen. Tan Parker (R-Flower Mound) are expected to lead the legislative charge, aiming to fast-track the necessary legislation to establish the Texas Cyber Command.
Capriglione, a longtime advocate for tech security, has direct experience in the field. In 2019, he was sworn into the Texas State Guard to work specifically on cybersecurity issues.
The Bigger Picture
Texas isn’t alone in ramping up its cyber defenses. Cybersecurity has become a growing focus for the federal government as well. The U.S. Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) was first established in 2009 under then-Secretary of Defense Robert Gates. Its mission: to combat global cyber threats and “Own the Domain” of cyberspace.
However, cybersecurity has not been a central focus of recent national policy. Since taking office, President Donald Trump has yet to issue any detailed executive orders on cybersecurity. The Republican Party’s 2024 platform only briefly mentions the issue, tucking it into the final paragraph of a 16-page document.
With or without federal backing, Texas is moving forward. The Texas Cyber Command signals a serious commitment to digital defense, ensuring that the state is prepared for the next wave of cyber threats.
