Texas Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples has published a new book on border security as the Republican prepares for a crowded 2014 race for lieutenant governor.
"Broken Borders, Broken Promises" was released Friday. Staples has made border security a signature issue, saying he was urged by rural landowners who came to him worried about Mexican cartels moving drugs through their property with escalating danger.
Critics say the danger on the border is exaggerated. That includes Laredo city officials, who last year launched a website to "offer facts in the face of hysteria."
Staples says federal statistics showing falling crime has inadequate data and is misleading.
Staples wants to replace Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst, who has said he will seek re-election in 2014. Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson is also in the running.
