Lafayette Reporter

WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) issued a stern warning to his colleagues in the Senate regarding the potential dismissal of the impeachment trial of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. Kennedy emphasized the importance of upholding Senate precedent and conducting a full trial in his address following the presentation of the articles of impeachment by the House of Representatives.

Kennedy highlighted the rarity of such proceedings, stating, “Our country is almost 250 years old. This has only happened 22 times. . . . Every single time, except for when the public official has quit, the United States Senate has done its job—through thick and thin, whether the Democrats were in the majority or the Republicans were in the majority."

He emphasized the Senate's duty to the Constitution and the three branches of government, regardless of political affiliations. Kennedy criticized the notion of dismissing the trial without hearing the evidence, questioning how one could judge the sufficiency of evidence without actually listening to it.

The Senator also addressed the political motivations behind the potential dismissal, pointing out that some colleagues may seek to avoid discussing certain issues, such as the border, in an election year. Kennedy stressed the importance of the Senate fulfilling its responsibilities and conducting a trial, stating, “Regardless of what you think or what you may think you think without having heard the evidence, the United States Senate should do its job. We should hold a trial.”

In his remarks, Kennedy expressed concern over the potential dismissal being driven by political considerations, labeling it an insult to the Senate and a deviation from upholding the rule of law. He warned against allowing political motivations to override the duty of the Senate to carry out a fair and just trial.

Kennedy's impassioned plea for upholding Senate traditions and ensuring a thorough impeachment process serves as a reminder of the gravity of the decision facing the Senate in the case of Secretary Mayorkas.