In a significant development, the impeachment proceedings against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas have officially commenced. On Tuesday, the House impeachment managers, chosen by Republican leaders, led a procession through the Capitol to present the two articles of impeachment to the Senate. This marks only the second time in U.S. history that a Cabinet secretary has faced impeachment, the first being William Belknap in 1876.

The charges against Mayorkas were publicly read by House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Mark Green from the Senate dais. The allegations include "willful and systemic refusal to comply with the law" and "breach of public trust." Mayorkas has vehemently denied these accusations, labeling them as "baseless."

The impeachment charges stem from House Republicans' dissatisfaction with Mayorkas's handling of the border situation. In mid-February, House Republicans voted to impeach him, asserting that he failed to enforce border laws during a surge in migrants arriving at the U.S.-Mexico border. However, the vote was contentious, with three Republicans dissenting and unanimous opposition from Democratic members.

On Wednesday at 1 p.m., Senators will be sworn in as jurors in the impeachment trial. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer confirmed this timeline. While top Republicans are demanding a thorough trial, the prospects of a full-scale trial appear slim, as the Senate has the option to either dismiss the trial altogether or assign it to a committee for further consideration. Democrats are expected to pursue the latter option.

Amidst the impeachment proceedings, Mayorkas appeared before Congress on Tuesday to advocate for increased funding for the Department of Homeland Security. Testifying about President Joe Biden's fiscal year 2025 budget, Mayorkas stressed the importance of fully supporting the dedicated public servants of the department and delivering the desired results for the American people.

The outcome of the impeachment trial and the potential implications for Mayorkas and the Biden administration remain uncertain. However, it is clear that these proceedings will shape the discourse surrounding immigration policies and the enforcement of border laws for years to come.