The House Homeland Security Committee is currently in the process of finalizing articles of impeachment against Secretary Mayorkas, claiming that the border crisis remains out of control. Recent footage captured by cameras revealed human smugglers dropping off dozens of migrants at a California border site. These migrants proceeded to run through a gap in the wall in Southern California. While impeachment typically applies to presidents, the phrase 'high crimes and misdemeanors' can also pertain to members of the cabinet and federal judges. The last cabinet member to face impeachment proceedings was William Belknap, the Secretary of War, in 1876.
One Republican committee member, Michael McCaul, the chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, stated that this impeachment may not gain traction in the Senate, but it aims to send a clear message of disapproval on behalf of the American people. Democrats, however, accuse Republicans of using Mayorkas' impeachment as a proxy for impeaching President Biden. Republicans believe that putting pressure on vulnerable Senate Democrats facing competitive reelections this fall could be an effective strategy.
Impeachment can be considered similar to an indictment, allowing the Senate to evaluate the charges against the accused. Democrats argue that Republicans have not met the standard for impeachment, which would require charges of treason, bribery, or high crimes and misdemeanors. Democrats assert that the accusations against Mayorkas are baseless.
The House Committee plans to prepare the articles for the floor today, but it is ultimately up to the full House to make the decision to impeach. Even moderate Republicans from swing districts appear to be supportive, claiming that their constituents have expressed a desire for impeachment. Nevertheless, Republicans will need all members on board to secure a successful impeachment vote in the House.
Considering the slim two-seat margin Republicans hold in the House of Representatives, it is crucial for them to ensure they have unanimous support from their party. The earliest timeframe for this potential impeachment vote is projected to be the middle of next week. With the upcoming elections, Democrats are unlikely to support this impeachment effort. However, the Republican focus is shifting towards the Senate, where the decision to proceed with a trial and potential vote on impeachment will likely have political implications for vulnerable Democrats facing reelection, such as Sherrod Brown in Ohio, John Tester in Montana, and Tammy Baldwin in Wisconsin.
As the impeachment process advances, Republicans will regard the Senate stance on this issue as a significant factor in next year's Senate races, potentially shaping their strategy and messaging surrounding these races. However, it remains uncertain whether an actual vote on impeachment will occur in a Senate trial.
