OPINION:
The constitutional term “high crimes and misdemeanors” was taken from English common law and is not limited to actual crimes (“House Republicans taking a key vote toward impeaching Mayorkas as border becomes 2024 campaign issue,” web, Jan. 30).
It extends to an abuse or violation of the public trust in carrying out duties assigned, so it also refers to noncriminal behavior amounting to a serious dereliction of duty.
Article 2, Section 3 of the Constitution states that the president “take care that the laws are faithfully executed.” That duty extends to the officers the president appoints (with the “with the Advice and Consent of the Senate”) to carry out his or her policies.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas took an oath. His duties include executing the laws, securing the borders of the republic, and protecting citizens from terrorists, criminals, potential diseases, illegal drugs and invasions. A large part of that duty involves controlling the inflow of immigrants into our country. He has failed in all of those duties.
In addition, Mr. Mayorkas has consistently lied to Congress and Americans. His cavalier approach to his job has signaled an invitation to the world to enter the United States illegally.
Throwing Mr. Mayorkas out of office will serve as a stick to other appointed officials to fulfill their duties and oath. It will also send a message to the world that the U.S. will no longer going to allow swarms of illegals to invade it.
DAVID WILLIAMS
Fairfax, Virginia
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