Mayorkas impeachment trial set to start

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – The Senate starts its impeachment proceedings Wednesday against the Homeland Security secretary over his handling of the U.S.-Mexico border. The chamber will turn into a courtroom and senators will be sworn in as jurors. But the trial could be over not long after it begins.

The entire process could be finished within hours since Democrats who hold the slim majority argue Republicans don’t have a case for impeachment.

“We need to hold a trial,” said Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas.)

Senate Republicans are ready to become jurors in an impeachment trial against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

“This doesn’t happen very often,” said Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.)

Louisiana Senator John Kennedy supports the two impeachment articles against Mayorkas over his handling of the U.S.-Mexico border.

“They’re serious as an aneurysm,” said Kennedy.

Tennessee Congressman Mark Green read off the charges to the Senate and blamed Mayorkas for a growing drug, crime and humanitarian crisis in the U.S.

“Mr. Mayorkas has worked to create policies intentionally to subvert those laws,” said Rep. Mark Green (R-Tenn.)

During a budget hearing for DHS Mayorkas defended his actions.

“We abide by the law.” Said Mayorkas.

Democrats on the committee including Louisiana Congressman Troy Carter called the impeachment articles a sham.

“Because they’re baseless and because they’re purely political in nature,” said Carter.

That’s why Senate Democrats are expected to try to dismiss the charges.  They only need a simple majority vote, but Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer would not commit one way or another.

“Impeachment should never be used to settle a policy disagreement,” said Schumer.

Senators will be sworn in as jurors Wednesday afternoon then issue a summons to Mayorkas to inform him of the charges and ask for a written answer, but he will not have to appear in person.

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