Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas refuses to step down as Republicans call for his resignation over migrant crisis

US Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has refused to step down from his position as Republicans continue to call for his resignation over the migrant crisis at the border. Instead, Mayorkas highlighted that he has a lot of work to do this week. His remarks came as Republicans called for him to resign or risk impeachment over the situation at the US border.

Just last year, Rep Jom Jordan had accused Mayorkas of being unsuccessful in enforcing immigration law and securing the border through “all means necessary”. However, in an interview with ABC ‘This Week’, US Homeland Security Secretary said he has no plans to step down while citing the November warning by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. At the time, McCarthy had said that if Mayorkas “does not resign, House Republicans will investigate” all actions, orders and failures if determine if they can start an impeachment inquiry.




Rejecting plans of his resignation, Mayorkas underscored that he has a lot of work to do. He went on to say that he is “proud” to be working alongside 250,000 individuals in the Department of Homeland Security. Homeland Security Secretary then declares, “I’m going to continue” the work. But, Mayorkas expressed willingness to go ahead with the investigations which were promised by House GOP as lawmakers grow critical of US President Joe Biden’s administration.

Amid tensions over the migrant crisis, Mayorkas is set to accompany Biden to US President’s first trip to the southern border while in the office. Each month, thousands of immigrants arrive at the US-Mexico border as authorities on the American side continue to tackle the surge in arrivals. Mayorkas emphasised that the migrant crisis is not exclusive to the US but it is “gripping the hemisphere”.

FAQs:

1. When will Mayorkas accompany Biden to the southern border?
   On Sunday, January 8, 2023
2. How did Mayorkas respond to resignation calls?
   US Homeland Security Secretary noted that he has “a lot of work to do” and has no plans of stepping down.