House Republicans are set to present their case against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to the Senate this week, following his impeachment by the Republican-controlled House two months ago. This marks the third time in five years that senators will serve as jurors in an impeachment trial.
The House impeached Mayorkas on February 13 by a narrow margin, accusing him of mishandling the U.S.-Mexico border. The charges include allegations that Mayorkas deliberately failed to enforce immigration laws and misled Congress by claiming the border was secure.
House Speaker Mike Johnson announced that the two articles of impeachment will be sent to the Senate on April 10. However, unlike previous impeachment trials involving former President Donald Trump, the Senate is expected to swiftly dismiss the charges, given the Democratic majority's likely support for such a move.
Democrats argue that the accusations against Mayorkas are more of a policy disagreement rather than meeting the constitutional threshold of 'high crimes and misdemeanors' required for impeachment.
While the Senate is obligated to consider the charges, a two-thirds majority vote is needed to convict Mayorkas. As of now, no Democrat has indicated support for the impeachment proceedings.
Senate Impeachment Trial Process
Under the impeachment rules, House managers will deliver the charges to the Senate, with senators being sworn in as jurors. The Senate will issue a summons to Mayorkas, and the President pro tempore of the Senate, Senator Patty Murray, will preside over the trial.
If Senate Democrats can secure a simple majority, they may move to dismiss the trial or table the articles, effectively ending the impeachment process. However, if the trial proceeds, senators will hear arguments from both sides, with the opportunity to call witnesses and question the parties involved.
Despite calls for a trial by some Senate Republicans, the outcome remains uncertain, with Democrats likely seeking to halt the process entirely. Mayorkas has expressed his focus on his work and will testify before a Senate committee about his department's budget proposal.
Overall, the impeachment trial of Alejandro Mayorkas is poised to be a significant political event, highlighting the ongoing debate over immigration policies and border security.
