Congress had a whirlwind day on Wednesday, with the Senate swiftly beginning and terminating the trial of Alejandro Mayorkas, Joe Biden’s director of Homeland Security, in just four hours. Democrats, with their majority, voted to kill both House Republicans’ articles of impeachment, arguing they did not meet the constitutional standard of “high crimes and misdemeanors.”
Republicans criticized the outcome, calling it an abdication of duty and setting a dangerous precedent. Democrats celebrated, labeling it a “baseless political stunt” by their rivals.
Meanwhile, Speaker Mike Johnson unveiled a three-part plan in the House, including a national security package for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, as well as addressing TikTok divestiture and border security. A rebellion led by Marjorie Taylor Greene and Thomas Massie could further complicate matters, with Democrats indicating they will protect the speaker from the far right.
The chamber faces a tough schedule ahead, with votes expected through the weekend. Democrats are considering a discharge petition to force a vote on the Ukraine bill, while also addressing resolutions and bills related to Iran after an attack on Israel.
With a showdown looming, Johnson’s speakership is at risk, with weariness from past chaos playing a factor. Democrats are ready to stand against the far right, with one member stating, “Massie wants the world to burn, I won’t stand by and watch. I have a bucket of water.” The coming days will be crucial for Congress as they navigate these challenges.