Former Acting ICE Director Ron Vitiello recently discussed escalating border concerns on Fox & Friends, following a critical report from House Homeland Security Committee Republicans. The report alleges that DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas deliberately neglected his responsibilities by pursuing an "open-borders agenda." Committee Chairman Mark Green initiated an investigation into Mayorkas earlier this year, fueled by criticism of the administration's handling of the border situation, which has witnessed millions of encounters since FY 2021.

The interim report asserts that Mayorkas dismantled effective policies, implemented an open-border approach, and disregarded numerous congressional laws. It further claims he undermined the separation of powers by rejecting his duty to enforce laws and comply with judicial rulings.

The report emphasizes that the issue extends beyond policy disagreements, arguing that policies should be grounded in law and benefit the American people. It concludes that Mayorkas has intentionally failed in his duty. Among the accusations are the misuse of humanitarian parole, disregard for court orders to reinstate prior policies, and neglecting mandatory detention of illegal immigrants. The report also criticizes the cancellation of border wall construction, Title 42, and the Migrant Protection Protocols, while implementing policies that allegedly favor illegal immigrants, such as narrowed ICE guidance leading to fewer deportations and increased catch-and-release.

This report is the latest in ongoing criticism of Mayorkas by Republicans, some advocating for his impeachment. Green has refrained from endorsing impeachment, emphasizing a focus on uncovering the facts. The Biden administration, however, points to a significant decrease in border encounters since the end of Title 42, attributing this to new measures and expanded legal immigration pathways. They highlight increased removals under Title 8 and Title 42 compared to previous years, disputing claims of open-border policies. The administration has also emphasized Mayorkas' statements affirming the U.S. as a "nation of laws." A DHS spokesperson defended Mayorkas' actions and urged Congress to focus on comprehensive immigration reform instead of impeachment. Democrats on the committee criticized the report, calling it a manufactured narrative driven by a predetermined goal of impeachment.

The scrutiny of Mayorkas is expected to continue, with the investigation's second phase already underway. Mayorkas is scheduled to testify before the House Judiciary Committee next week, where he will likely face further questioning from Republicans regarding the border situation.