“Is there a reason Perry can’t just call out the National Guard himself? I thought that was within a governor’s power.”
Yes, the governor of Texas can use the Texas Army National Guard for this issue. However, if he does, it is a “state” issue and must be PAID FOR BY THE STATE. Even big Texas could not afford to pay for a large number of soldiers placed on active duty for state matters for any length of time. A state cannot afford to pay for a large standing military.
Most folks do not understand that even National Guard troops, except for maybe the state’s adjutant general, are paid for by the federal government....even the weekend drills come from federal monies. So, in reality (monetarily), a state doesn’t really own its national guard.
Yes, the somewhat remain nominally under the control of a governor, but if he/she cannot pay for their (non-federal) use, then what good are they?
Also, IF the governor should call up, on state duty, his national guard soldiers, the POTUS can “federalize” the troops and take control from the governor if he/she chooses to do so.
You obviously don't realize that the entire US/Mexico border could be sealed by less than 200 Paladin howitzers (plus support & logistics).
It appears Perry’s choice will be to raise taxes to pay for the NG or raise taxes to pay for immigrant children’s upkeep.