I think Abbott has already struck some sort of deal with Trump. All the Texas R's have been suspiciously quiet about the announcement, in fact we saw Patrick and Paxton fully endorsing TFG. I read one article that said Abbott wasn't running if Trump ran.
So my theory is team Trump/Abbott in 2024. Texas is a nice big red state, lots of O&G and of course under imminent threat of an invasion from Mexico.
Abbott runs as VP and once they get into office, Trump turns to him for Nixon/Ford Ver.2025. Or even if Trump stays in office, Abbott is in good shape to roll forward.
Or Trump gets to the point either legally or healthwise and can't run, then Abbott inherits all the Trumpers, and brings them back into the red flock.
I know it seems outlandish, but what isn't, anymore?
He's already running, testing the waters. More busloads and now this "invasion" bullshit. It's all to keep Trump's immigration fearmongering boiling.