Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has offered to testify in the House GOP’s impeachment inquiry against him, according to reports. The House Homeland Security Committee has launched impeachment hearings following a yearlong investigation into Mayorkas’ handling of the border crisis.
Mayorkas was initially asked to appear for a hearing on January 18, but his staff suggested finding another date due to scheduling conflicts. However, Mayorkas has expressed his willingness to testify and work out the details of the hearing.
Meanwhile, Homeland Security Committee Chairman Mark Green has accused Mayorkas of refusing the committee’s request and criticized him for not appearing before a co-equal branch of government. Green claimed that Mayorkas’ schedule, involving a meeting with Mexican Cabinet Members, was cited as a reason for the delay.
The GOP’s push to impeach Mayorkas comes as he is actively working with bipartisan senators to enhance immigration enforcement and resources at the southern border. Green’s initial request to Mayorkas sought a response by January 10, and the committee staff granted an extension when the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) requested more time.
According to committee staff, this is not the first time Mayorkas has declined to testify before the committee. However, Mayorkas has previously testified on Capitol Hill 27 times, and the DHS has cooperated extensively with Congress, providing witnesses and responding to letters.
In Mayorkas’ absence, the committee plans to hold a hearing titled “Voices for the Victims: The Heartbreaking Reality of the Mayorkas Border Crisis” on January 18. This hearing aims to shed light on the impact of the border crisis and the secretary’s alleged mishandling of the situation.
As the impeachment proceedings continue, the country waits to see how Mayorkas’ testimony will unfold and how it may impact the ongoing discussions and efforts to address the immigration challenges at the southern border. Stay tuned for further developments in this high-stakes political saga.
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