Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) reassured Texans that people living in the U.S. illegally will be able to seek shelter in evacuation centers ahead of Hurricane Harvey without fear of deportation.

Asked by MSNBC's Stephanie Ruhle whether those in the U.S. illegally would be "asked for identification" at any storm shelters, Abbott responded: "it will not be an issue."

"It's my understanding, from what I saw from the border patrol instructions yesterday, that it will not be an issue," the governor said. "What everyone is focused on right now is ensuring all we can to protect life. We all have a high regard for life. We want to ensure the safety of all lives and we're prepared to take all measures to do so."