What If Texas Became Its Own Country? The Big “What If?

What if Texas became its own country? Explore the possibilities, challenges, and impacts of Texas declaring independence.

Imagine waking one morning to a morning-after sort of report: Texas declares independence from America! What a bold declaration, isn’t it? That Lone Star state, famous for its big egos, larger ambitions, and even its unique approach to marketing itself, overnight became an independent nation unto its own. 

Would Texas flourish as an independent behemoth, or founder under its new independence? Would it manage its own “American Dream,” or serve as a cautionary lesson in modern-day secession? Let’s dissect it all, no nonsense, simply the facts (with a dash of Texas-sized speculation for amusement).

Could Texas Legally Secede from the U.S.?

First things first, can Texas actually leave?

Despite the general presumption that Texas has a mystical talent for getting out of the Union, in 1869, the U.S. Supreme Court settled the controversy with Texas v. White. In its decision, it specifically ruled: There is no state that can unilaterally secede from the U.S.

In other words, in order for Texas to secede, it would have to seek permission from the national government, and let’s not delude ourselves, that’s not happening anytime in the near future. But for discussion’s sake, let’s say, for example, that America agreed (or, say, that Texas negotiated a peaceful departure successfully). What then?

Would Texas become wealthier or poorer?

Texas has a larger economy than most nations. Were it a sovereign state, it would rank 9th in terms of economy in the whole world, larger even than Canada, South Korea, and even Russia. That is no small achievement.

But here’s when it can become complex:

• Federal Money: With its current funding for schools, medical care, and infrastructure, it will stand to lose them all when it separates and declares independence. Can Texas fund them with its current budget?
• New Trade Negotiations: It will have to re-negotiate its trading deals, not just with America but with countries with worldwide powers too. With its technology and its oil, it will have bargaining chips, but not an easy one at that.
• Currency Issues: Would Texas have its own, issue its own, or use the U.S. dollar? “Lone Star Dollar” or “Texan Peso” is catchy, but economically a nightmare to implement

So, while Texas has enough financial horsepower to make it alone, its transition will not be an easy one.

Who Would Protect Texas?

One of the biggest hurdles? Defense.

Right now, Texas is home to 15 major military bases. If it seceded, the U.S. would likely pull its troops and equipment. That means Texas would need to build its own military from scratch, no small feat.

Would Texas start a draft? Would it join NATO? Would it form alliances with other countries for protection? These are real questions that any independent nation has to answer.

And let’s not forget border security. With an entirely new border (including one with the U.S.), Texas would have to ramp up its customs enforcement, another massive expense.

What Would Change for Texans?

For everyday Texans, life would change a lot. Here’s how:

• Passports & Citizenship: Would Texans still be considered U.S. citizens? Would they need visas to visit family in other states? The logistics alone would be a nightmare.
• Social Security & Medicare: Texans who paid into U.S. federal programs their whole lives might suddenly lose those benefits. The state would have to create its own systems, costly and time-consuming.
• New Laws & Regulations: Texas could create its own rules on taxes, healthcare, education, and business. But that’s a double-edged sword, some might love the new freedoms, while others could face uncertainty and instability.

Would Texas Have More Freedom?

As its own country, Texas could shape its own destiny.

• Gun Laws: Texas already has some of the loosest gun laws in the U.S. Could an independent Texas go even further?
• Taxes: Would Texans pay fewer taxes? Possibly. But without federal funding, the state might need to increase taxes to keep roads, schools, and hospitals running.
• Trade & Immigration: Texas could decide who enters its country and on what terms. But would it keep close ties with the U.S. or turn elsewhere for economic partnerships?

Could It Actually Work?

Economists and historians agree, Texas could be an independent country, but it would face serious growing pains.

Lessons from History: Other regions have attempted independence, like Scotland and Catalonia, but have struggled due to economic and political complications. Texas might face similar obstacles.

But here’s the wild card: Texas loves being different. If any state could pull it off, it’s this one. With its economic strength, cultural identity, and history of independence, Texas would have a fighting chance.

Key Takeaways:

• Texas cannot legally secede from the United States without approval from the federal government.
• While Texas has a strong economy, it would face challenges in terms of funding, trade deals, and establishing its own currency if it were to become an independent country.
• Defense and border security would also be major concerns for an independent Texas.
• The lives of everyday Texans would be significantly impacted by independence, with changes in citizenship, social programs, and laws and regulations.
• An independent Texas could potentially have more freedom in areas such as gun laws, taxes, and trade and immigration policies.

Useful Articles:

1. Texas can’t secede from the U.S. Here’s why: Explains the historical and legal reasons why Texas cannot legally secede from the United States.
2. Can Texas secede: Discusses the myths and facts surrounding Texas’ ability to leave the Union, based on legal documents and history.
3. Texas can’t legally secede from the U.S., despite popular myth: Highlights the legal precedents and historical context that make secession impossible.
4. If Texas were to secede from the United States again: Explores the economic, political, and social challenges Texas would face as an independent nation.
5. What would happen if Texas actually seceded: Analyzes the potential consequences of Texas seceding, including economic and federal impacts.
6. Would Texas be able to defend itself if it seceded from the U.S: Discusses the feasibility of Texas establishing its own defense systems and military capabilities.