Austin News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Mike Lee (R-Utah) have voiced their concerns in an op-ed published in the Wall Street Journal regarding the impeachment proceedings for Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. The Senators argue that efforts by Senate Democrats to end the proceedings without a trial are unconstitutional and a violation of Senate rules.

In their op-ed, the Senators emphasized the importance of following constitutional processes, stating, “The Constitution, Senate rules and precedent are clear: The Senate has an obligation to vote on articles of impeachment.” They highlighted the historical context of impeachment trials and the need for the Senate to conduct a trial before reaching a verdict.

Furthermore, Cruz and Lee pointed out the significance of upholding due process rights during impeachment proceedings, stating, “But when sitting as a court of impeachment, the chamber operates under special rules that resemble a court’s process to preserve justice, protect the accused person’s due-process rights, and ultimately render judgment on the charges.”

The Senators also highlighted their commitment to respecting the impeachment process, referencing their actions during President Trump’s first impeachment. They expressed their concerns over Senate Democrats' attempts to bypass a trial and politicize the impeachment process, stating, “Now that the shoe is on the other foot, Senate Democrats are trying to destroy yet another precedent and further politicize the impeachment process.”

In conclusion, Cruz and Lee warned of the potential consequences of deviating from established norms in impeachment proceedings, stating, “Democrats will shatter another norm and set a dangerous precedent that they’re going to regret.”

The full op-ed can be accessed in the Wall Street Journal for those interested in further details.