Accusations of Noncompliance and Violation of Public Trust
The House Rules Committee has passed two impeachment articles against Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas. The first article accuses him of refusing to comply with Federal immigration laws, while the second alleges a violation of public trust. The vote passed on party lines, with an 8-4 majority in favor, setting the stage for a procedural rule vote, followed by a House floor debate and final impeachment vote. Sources suggest that the vote will take place on Tuesday.
Polarized Views and Political Motives
House GOP leaders have accused Mayorkas of intentionally disregarding federal laws and implementing policies that have exacerbated the situation at the U.S.-Mexico border. Democrats, on the other hand, have dismissed the impeachment push as politically motivated, claiming that the articles lack a solid basis. Despite this divide, the impeachment effort has managed to unite a previously divided House GOP conference, with even moderates from districts that supported President Biden in 2020 expressing support for Mayorkas’ impeachment.
Slim Majority and Potential Support
Speaker Mike Johnson, who leads a narrow House GOP majority, will need every Republican vote to pass the historic measure. The return of Majority Leader Steve Scalise and Rep. Hal Rogers from medical absences this week will provide a bit more flexibility. While at least one House Republican is against the impeachment, and four more remain undecided, Rep. Ken Buck of Colorado has criticized Mayorkas’ handling of the southern border crisis but stated that he believes the offense is not impeachable.
Mayorkas Stands Firm
Mayorkas has responded to the impeachment articles in a letter to House Homeland Security Secretary Mark Green, dismissing the accusations as false and asserting that they do not deter him from his law enforcement and public service mission. He remains committed to his career and the responsibilities entrusted to him.
Contrasting Agendas
The impeachment proceedings against Mayorkas stand in stark contrast to Senate leaders’ efforts to pass a bipartisan border security deal. Mayorkas has been actively involved in these negotiations, highlighting the divergence between the two chambers.