Lafayette Reporter

Senator John Kennedy (R-La.) criticized Senate Democrats' apparent plans to bury the impeachment charges against Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas without a full trial, calling it "unconscionable." Kennedy, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined Republican colleagues in calling on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to hold a full, fair trial in the Senate to consider the House of Representatives' articles of impeachment.

Kennedy expressed his concerns, stating, "A charitable interpretation of what Sen. Schumer is planning to do does not exist. It doesn’t. He is going to either make a motion to table or to dismiss the work done by the U.S. House of Representatives." He emphasized the importance of following Senate custom, rules, and history in handling impeachment proceedings.

The Senator highlighted the unprecedented nature of dismissing or tabling the articles against Mayorkas, as the Senate has historically held a full trial in every impeachment except in cases where the official was either removed or resigned. Kennedy criticized Schumer's timing, pointing out that the Senate leader had planned to take action on a Thursday when legislators are likely returning to their districts. He remarked, "This is unconscionable, people. This ranks right up there with getting rid of the filibuster. We’re either going to have a United States Senate as set up by our founders or we’re not, and that’s what’s going on here."

In March, Kennedy had previously explained why it would be unprecedented for the Senate to dismiss the impeachment charges against Mayorkas without a trial. The Senator's strong stance on upholding Senate traditions and principles in the impeachment process reflects the ongoing debate and tensions surrounding the case.

For more information and to view Senator Kennedy's full remarks, visit the provided links.