(MYHIGHPLAINS) — AUSTIN -- Governor Greg Abbott, R-TX, says he's trying to bring calm to some Texans about a military exercise that will take place in Texas and six other states.
The eight-week exercise, known as Jade Helm 15, will begin July 15 and involves U.S. Specials Operations Forces such as Navy Seals and Green Berets. They will use public and private lands to train for overseas missions.
The prospect of armed federal troops in Texas has ignited a host of concerns and speculation about the military's motives -- ranging from the military's intention to impose martial law to a government conspiracy to launch a hostile takeover of Texas to taking away people's gun rights.