Gov. Abbott ignores boycott call, says he'll be in North Texas MLK Parade

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said despite opposition, he will take part in the North Texas Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade in Arlington on Monday.

His comments came in the wake of a call by some on Monday to boycott the parade because of Abbott’s involvement.

Abbott said in Dallas on Tuesday he wouldn't think of backing out of the MLK parade.

“I'm honored to participate in the parade,” Abbott said.

His float is all wrapped up and ready to go while work continues on other floats for the parade. The governor will be riding on a float as the honorary grand marshal.

"He wants it to look good. He wants it to be a good representation of Texas and his office, but doesn't want flamboyance, doesn't want a lot of hoop-dee-doo. That's not what he's here for, just to support Texas and celebration of Dr. King,” said Clyde Watts, Lone Star Parade Floats.

But opponents say the governor's policies go against everything Martin Luther King worked for.

"His legacy lives on, it's right for all of us to come together and celebrate that legacy and remind all Americans of the dream MLK talked about and strive every single day to live up to that dream,” Abbott said.

As for those hoping he would not participate, Abbott said he is the governor for all Texans.

“I want to make sure that by being involved in the MLK parade that I am making it clear that as governor I represent every Texan,” Abbott said.