House Republicans have taken a bold move by releasing two articles of impeachment against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. Their decision to oust Mayorkas stems from their belief that he has failed to effectively manage the U.S.-Mexico border. However, this move has drawn outrage from Democrats and the agency itself, who view it as a politically motivated stunt without a constitutional basis.

Republicans argue that Mayorkas is guilty of "high crimes and misdemeanors," accusing him of willfully and systematically refusing to comply with immigration laws. They claim that his actions have compromised national security, public safety, and violated the rule of law and separation of powers outlined in the Constitution. Impeachment, they argue, is the only viable option to hold him accountable.

This impeachment effort against a Cabinet member is a rare occurrence in American history. The only other instance was the impeachment of William Belknap, President Ulysses Grant's war secretary, in 1876, which was related to kickbacks in government contracts. This move by Republicans to impeach Mayorkas for a policy dispute, specifically his alleged failure to uphold immigration laws, is unprecedented.

Since gaining control of the House in 2023, Republicans have been pushing for Mayorkas's impeachment. Their announcement on Sunday comes at a time when their other impeachment drive, targeting Democratic President Joe Biden over his son Hunter's business dealings, has faced challenges in advancing. However, Republicans have acted swiftly against Mayorkas following a series of hearings in recent weeks.

This move by House Republicans also aligns with the current political landscape, where border security and immigration have become key issues in the upcoming 2024 campaign. Former President Donald Trump, who is the front-runner for the Republican presidential nomination, has promised to launch the "largest deportation operation" in U.S. history if he returns to the White House.

The Republican-controlled House Homeland Security Committee is scheduled to vote on the articles of impeachment on Tuesday, with the aim of sending them to the full House for consideration. Republican Speaker Mike Johnson has expressed his intention to move forward with a vote as soon as possible after that. Passage of the impeachment articles only requires a House majority.