House Republicans made history on Tuesday by successfully impeaching Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, marking the first impeachment of a Cabinet secretary in nearly 150 years. The impeachment, driven by allegations that Mayorkas failed to enforce immigration laws, passed with a narrow margin of 214 to 213, with House Majority Leader Steve Scalise’s return providing the decisive vote. Three Republicans—Rep. Ken Buck of Colorado, Tom McClintock of California, and Mike Gallagher of Wisconsin—broke ranks to join House Democrats in voting against the measure, citing concerns about the precedent it sets for impeaching officials over policy differences.
President Biden’s Response and Republican Strategy
President Joe Biden swiftly criticized House Republicans for what he termed as “blatant unconstitutional partisanship,” highlighting their previous failed attempt at impeachment. Biden defended Mayorkas, stating that he has faithfully upheld the rule of law. Meanwhile, Republicans rushed to finalize the impeachment proceedings ahead of a special election in New York, where the GOP feared further challenges to their majority. Despite the impeachment, Mayorkas is unlikely to be removed from office, as Republican senators have expressed skepticism about the case, lacking the necessary 67 votes for conviction.
Historical Context and Potential Senate Trial
The last time Congress impeached a Cabinet secretary was in 1876 when former Secretary of War William W. Belknap faced impeachment for accepting bribes. Unlike Belknap, Mayorkas is not expected to face removal from office due to insufficient support in the Senate. However, every senator now serves as a potential juror in a potential trial against Mayorkas, although there may not even be a trial. Democrats, who hold a narrow majority, could opt to avoid a trial altogether or seek an early dismissal of the case.
Political Implications and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s Role
The impeachment provides House Republicans with another opportunity to criticize President Biden’s handling of immigration, capitalizing on public dissatisfaction with the situation at the U.S. Southern border. Notably, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, who authored the initial impeachment articles against Mayorkas, is poised to play a significant role as a House manager. This position entails formally presenting the case to the Senate, a role previously held by prominent figures such as Sen. Lindsey Graham and Rep. Adam Schiff during impeachment trials against Presidents Bill Clinton and Donald Trump, respectively. Greene’s involvement underscores the political significance of the impeachment proceedings and its potential impact on both parties’ agendas moving forward.
