Memphis Standard

On the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) expressed her support for a resolution of no confidence against Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. Senator Blackburn criticized Secretary Mayorkas for his failure to secure the Southern border and his handling of the border crisis caused by the current administration's open-border policies.

In her remarks, Senator Blackburn highlighted the impact of Secretary Mayorkas' failures on various stakeholders. She emphasized the challenges faced by border agents who are struggling to combat the border crisis. Senator Blackburn also underscored the negative consequences experienced by communities across the country, including record Fentanyl overdoses, human trafficking, and cartel violence.

Furthermore, Senator Blackburn criticized Secretary Mayorkas for failing the American people, who entrusted him with the responsibility of protecting and securing the nation. She expressed her hope that the impeachment proceedings initiated by House Republicans against Secretary Mayorkas would be the first step in addressing his record of failure.

Senator Blackburn presented alarming statistics to support her argument against Secretary Mayorkas. She noted that under his leadership, more than 8.5 million illegal immigrants, including 1.7 million "gotaways," have entered the country. This number exceeds the population of 38 states. Additionally, she highlighted the significant increase in individuals on the terror watchlist apprehended at the Southern border compared to previous years.

Quoting FBI Director Christopher Wray, Senator Blackburn emphasized the potential terror threats associated with the current situation at the border. Director Wray expressed concern about the presence of "blinking lights everywhere" regarding these potential threats.

The senator also addressed the issue of drug smuggling across the border. She stated that since 2021, more than 50,000 pounds of Fentanyl, the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18 to 45, have been seized at the border. Senator Blackburn highlighted the concerning fact that federal agents believe they are only intercepting between 5 and 10 percent of the drugs being smuggled into the country.

Furthermore, Senator Blackburn criticized Secretary Mayorkas for denying the existence of a border crisis for three years. She mentioned the false accusations made by the Secretary against border agents, alleging that they whipped migrants. Secretary Mayorkas never apologized for these unfounded claims, despite evidence to the contrary.

Finally, Senator Blackburn highlighted Secretary Mayorkas' belated acknowledgment of the border problem after migrant encounters reached a monthly high of 302,000 in December. However, she criticized his attempt to blame the record number on the "effects of climate change," considering it an inadequate response to a significant issue.

In conclusion, Senator Blackburn expressed her disappointment with Secretary Mayorkas' performance and the impact it has had on border security and the well-being of the American people. She called for better leadership and accountability in addressing the border crisis.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/1/video-senator-blackburn-slams-secretary-mayorkas-over-border-failures