House Votes to Impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas

The House of Representatives voted to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

The Impeachment: House Republicans accuse Mayorkas of “willful and systemic refusal to comply with the law” in regard to enforcing immigration policy.

The Vote: The Impeachment vote passed 214-213. This follows last week’s attempt to impeach Mayorkas, which failed 214-216. Three Republicans that voted with Democrats against impeachment last week remained opposed during the second vote, but Rep. Blake Moore (R-UT), who changed his vote to ‘no’ last week to resolve the tie, voted in favor. Additionally, Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA), who missed the vote last week to undergo treatment for blood cancer, was present for the second attempt and voted in favor.

Key Quotes: During last week’s debate on the vote, House Homeland Security Chair Mark Green (R-Tenn.) stated, “[Mayorkas’] refusal to obey the law has led to the death of our fellow citizens, and he no longer deserves to keep his job.” Speaking before Tuesday’s vote, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) stated that Mayorkas has done more “damage on the country than any Cabinet secretary that's ever been.” Following the vote, President Joe Biden released a statement reading, “History will not look kindly on House Republicans for their blatant act of unconstitutional partisanship that has targeted an honorable public servant in order to play petty political games.”

How the Media Covered It: Outlets across the spectrum reported that the Impeachment proceeding is nearly certain to fail in the Senate, where Democrats hold a majority.