North Austin News

WASHINGTON – U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) addressed witnesses at the committee’s second impeachment hearing of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. The hearing, titled "Voices for the Victims: The Heartbreaking Reality of the Mayorkas Border Crisis," provided an opportunity for McCaul to hear the stories of victims' families and shed light on Mayorkas' alleged dereliction of duty.

During the hearing, McCaul expressed his belief that Mayorkas has violated his oath and the public trust. He emphasized the importance of hearing the personal stories of those affected by the border crisis, stating, "Your stories are the most powerful, because they are real life stories about the impact of this man’s violation of the public trust."

McCaul also drew attention to the legal justification for impeachment, stating that the Supreme Court has recognized impeachment as a tool that Congress can use to hold the Secretary accountable. He further asserted that Mayorkas' actions have been a dereliction of duty and referenced the devastating impact of fentanyl, labeling it a "weapon of mass destruction."

During the hearing, McCaul had conversations with two victims' mothers, Tammy Nobles and Josephine Dunn, who lost loved ones due to Mayorkas' alleged dereliction of duty. McCaul expressed his condolences to the mothers and expressed his disappointment in Mayorkas' absence, stating, "He does not have the decency to even show up and talk to you personally."

Dunn, whose daughter's birthday coincided with the hearing, expressed her frustration with Mayorkas' absence and stated, "So whatever he's doing, I hope it's more important than that." McCaul assured Dunn that he would take her story to Mexican officials when he meets with them later, highlighting the impact of her daughter's tragic death.

Nobles, who also lost her daughter, held Mayorkas personally accountable for the death and expressed her support for his impeachment. McCaul echoed her sentiments and criticized Mayorkas for failing to apologize or take responsibility for the tragic loss of life.

In his closing remarks, McCaul emphasized the personal toll of the border crisis, sharing his own connection to the victims' stories. He revealed that he has a daughter the same age as one of the victims and drew attention to the personal details of their lives, highlighting the devastation caused by the failed policies on the border.

McCaul's remarks and conversations with the victims' families shed light on the devastating consequences of Mayorkas' alleged dereliction of duty. As the impeachment hearing continues, the voices of these families serve as a powerful reminder of the need for accountability and change in the Department of Homeland Security.