House Republicans Introduce Articles of Impeachment Against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas

House Republicans have revealed two articles of impeachment against Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas over his handling of border security and illegal immigration, as the Biden administration faces ongoing challenges in its immigration policies. The House Committee on Homeland Security released a statement accusing Mayorkas of willful non-compliance with the law and breaching public trust.

There have been criticisms from Republicans regarding Mayorkas’ approach to border security, particularly with regards to the spike in apprehensions and the increase in illegal drug smuggling. Mayorkas has also faced backlash for attempting to reverse certain immigration rules implemented during the Trump era, such as the Migrant Protection Protocols.

The impeachment resolution comes in the midst of a Republican-led inquiry into the potential impeachment of President Biden. House Speaker Mike Johnson has announced an impeachment inquiry into Biden over allegations of coordinating with his son, Hunter Biden, on business dealings.

Legal experts have expressed skepticism about the grounds for impeaching Mayorkas, with some arguing that it is primarily a difference in immigration policy rather than criminal wrongdoing. The Department of Homeland Security has referred to the impeachment effort as a “farce,” and notes that the Biden administration has taken significant measures to address immigration issues.

If the House committee approves the articles of impeachment, a vote on the House floor would follow. However, it is unlikely that the Democratic-led Senate would move forward with convicting Mayorkas.

In U.S. history, only one Cabinet secretary, William W. Belknap, has been impeached by the House in 1876. Belknap, who held the position of Secretary of War under President Ulysses S. Grant, faced allegations of corruption but was acquitted in the Senate.