In a surprising turn of events, Colorado Republican Ken Buck has firmly declared his opposition to the impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. Buck's stance has raised questions about whether the House GOP has enough votes to proceed with the impeachment.

Buck, a staunch Republican, stated that he considers the allegations against Mayorkas as "maladministration" rather than an impeachable offense. Despite acknowledging that the situation at the border is a disaster, Buck maintains that impeachment is not warranted.

The slim majority held by Republicans in the House makes Buck's opposition significant, as they can only afford to lose two votes if all members are present and voting. If successful, the impeachment articles would lead to a Senate trial.

Buck, who had previously been undecided on the issue, revealed that he has been in discussions with Homeland Security Committee Chairman Mark Green, R-Tenn., and committee staff. Interestingly, the House Republican leadership has not approached him to try and influence his vote.

The impeachment articles were sent to the full House for a vote by members of the House Homeland Security Committee, who voted along party lines. The accusations against Mayorkas and the Biden administration revolve around allegations of disregarding federal immigration laws. However, Democrats, constitutional scholars, and now Buck argue that these allegations do not rise to the level of impeachment.

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., who is currently absent from Washington for cancer treatment, also holds a key vote. If he returns before the impeachment vote, Republicans could afford to lose three votes. However, Democrats express confidence in their members' unity in opposing the impeachment.

Other Republicans, including Rep. Tom McClintock, R-Calif., have also expressed reservations about supporting the impeachment. McClintock criticized Mayorkas' record as secretary but argued that it does not meet the specific threshold of treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors set by America's founders.

Meanwhile, Rep. Dave Joyce of Ohio is reviewing materials from the Homeland Security Committee and has met with Chairman Green, while Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Wash., is waiting to see the committee's findings.

The situation surrounding the potential impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas remains uncertain as Republicans grapple with differing opinions on the matter. The outcome of the vote in the House and its impact on the Senate trial is yet to be determined.