Connect with us

Published

on

Four Texas U.S. Representatives failed to cast their votes on H.Res.863, a resolution aiming to impeach Alejandro Nicholas Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security. The outcome of the vote has raised eyebrows as the absence of these representatives essentially aligned them with Democrats, preventing the resolution from advancing.

The four representatives in question are Dan Crenshaw (R. TX, District 2), Pat Fallon (R. TX, District 4), Sheila Jackson Lee (D. TX, District 18), and Roger Williams (R. TX District 25). The absence of these representatives during a crucial vote on the impeachment of Mayorkas has ignited speculation about their stance on the issue.

The Impeachment Resolution: H.Res.863

H.Res.863, a comprehensive document aimed at initiating the impeachment of Alejandro Nicholas Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security, sheds light on a series of grave allegations. Titled “Impeaching Alejandro Nicholas Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security, for high crimes and misdemeanors,” the resolution presents a meticulously crafted case against Mayorkas, accusing him of serious transgressions related to his duties as the head of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

The first focal point of the resolution is the alleged violation of the Secure Fence Act of 2006, a critical piece of legislation designed to bolster national security by mandating the maintenance of operational control over the entire international land and maritime borders of the United States. H.Res.863 contends that Mayorkas has willfully neglected this responsibility, permitting a breach of the nation’s borders that has resulted in an influx of approximately 10 million individuals. The resolution argues that this breach includes not only traditional illegal border crossers but also individuals involved in nefarious activities such as terrorism, human trafficking, and drug smuggling.

Furthermore, the resolution invokes the Guarantee Clause of the Constitution, specifically Article IV, Section 4, which obligates the federal government to ensure each state in the union a republican form of government and protection against invasion. H.Res.863 asserts that Mayorkas, in his capacity as Secretary of Homeland Security, has failed in upholding this constitutional duty by allowing what it characterizes as an invasion of 10 million individuals across the southern border. The resolution emphasizes that this ongoing invasion poses a direct national security threat to both the states and the citizens within them.

To bolster its case, H.Res.863 provides a detailed breakdown of the consequences of Mayorkas’s alleged failure to maintain control over the U.S. border. This includes staggering statistics such as encounters with individuals on terrorist watchlists, the alarming number of unaccompanied illegal children encountered at the southern border, and the tragic deaths of individuals attempting to cross. The resolution underscores the gravity of the situation by highlighting the presence of “special interest aliens” from countries associated with promoting terrorist activity, presenting a compelling argument that Mayorkas’s actions jeopardize the safety and security of the United States.

In essence, H.Res.863 paints a vivid picture of a Secretary of Homeland Security who, according to the resolution, has not only neglected his duties but has actively contributed to a scenario that undermines the nation’s security and violates constitutional mandates. The allegations put forth in this resolution serve as the foundation for the push to impeach Mayorkas, signaling a deeply contentious and consequential chapter in the ongoing debate surrounding immigration and national security policies.

Allegations Against Mayorkas

The allegations against Alejandro Nicholas Mayorkas presented in H.Res.863 delve into a series of concerning statistics and trends that have unfolded since he assumed office as the Secretary of Homeland Security. These figures paint a troubling picture of what the resolution characterizes as a failure to uphold the fundamental responsibilities of the position, particularly in safeguarding the nation’s borders and protecting its citizens.

The resolution outlines a significant influx of illegal border crossers since Mayorkas took office, indicating a marked increase in individuals attempting to enter the United States unlawfully. This surge is depicted as a direct consequence of what the document alleges is Mayorkas’s failure to maintain operational control over the U.S. border, a duty mandated by the Secure Fence Act of 2006. The resolution contends that this influx not only includes typical undocumented migrants but also individuals associated with illicit activities such as terrorism, human trafficking, and drug smuggling.

Moreover, the resolution raises the alarm about encounters with individuals on terrorist watchlists at the southern border. This assertion implies a potential compromise of national security, suggesting that the lax border control policies under Mayorkas may have allowed individuals with links to terrorism to enter the country undetected.

The issue of missing unaccompanied children is brought to the forefront, underscoring the humanitarian and security concerns associated with the handling of minors at the border. The resolution emphasizes that a substantial number of unaccompanied children have gone missing, raising questions about the efficacy of the Department of Homeland Security’s protocols in ensuring the well-being and proper processing of vulnerable individuals.

Tragically, the resolution notes a significant number of deaths at the southern border, emphasizing the human toll of what it characterizes as an uncontrolled and chaotic situation. These fatalities, the resolution argues, are a direct consequence of Mayorkas’s alleged failure to secure the border effectively.

In addition to human-related concerns, the resolution spotlights the surge in fentanyl seizures at the border. Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, is identified as the number one killer of Americans between the ages of 18 and 45, with a staggering daily death toll. The resolution contends that Mayorkas’s termination of border wall construction and implementation of policies like catch and release have facilitated the entry of illegal substances, exacerbating the fentanyl crisis and posing a severe threat to American lives.

By presenting these detailed statistics and connecting them to Mayorkas’s policy decisions, the resolution builds a case that underscores not only the alleged incompetence in border management but also the potential dangers posed to national security and public health under his leadership. This section of the resolution aims to highlight the tangible and far-reaching consequences of the Secretary’s actions, further strengthening the argument for his impeachment.

Failure to Vote: A Political Maneuver?

The vote on H.Res.863 saw 209 representatives in favor of referring the action to committee, 201 against, and 23 representatives abstaining from voting. Notably, 12 of the representatives who chose not to vote were Republicans, including the aforementioned Dan Crenshaw, Pat Fallon, and Roger Williams.

By abstaining from voting, these Texas representatives effectively aligned themselves with the Democrats, contributing to the failure of the impeachment resolution. The decision not to vote has sparked discussions about their motivations and positions on the impeachment of Mayorkas.

Representatives’ Contact Information

Representatives’ Contact Information and Call to Action:

  • Pat Fallon (R. TX, District 4): (202) 225-6673
  • Dan Crenshaw (R. TX, District 2): (202) 225-6565
  • Sheila Jackson Lee (D. TX, District 18): (202) 225-3816
  • Roger Williams (R. TX District 25): (202) 225-9896

As citizens exercise their right to engage in the democratic process, it is crucial for residents of Texas to actively voice their concerns to the representatives who serve them. The four U.S. Representatives in question—Dan Crenshaw (R. TX, District 2), Pat Fallon (R. TX, District 4), Sheila Jackson Lee (D. TX, District 18), and Roger Williams (R. TX District 25)—must be made aware of the disappointment and concerns of their constituents regarding their failure to vote on the impeachment resolution of Secretary Mayorkas.

To express your views and expectations, consider reaching out to these representatives through the contact information provided above. Respectfully communicate your disappointment with their absence during this critical vote and stress the importance of active representation in matters of national significance. Remind them that voters will be closely observing their actions, and their decisions will undoubtedly factor into considerations during the upcoming primary elections. Constructive engagement with elected officials is an integral aspect of a thriving democracy, and by expressing your thoughts, you contribute to holding representatives accountable for their actions. Your voice matters, and it is a powerful tool in shaping the direction of our democratic system.

Michael Pipkins focuses on public integrity, governance, constitutional issues, and political developments affecting Texans. His investigative reporting covers public-record disputes, city-government controversies, campaign finance matters, and the use of public authority. Pipkins is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ). As an SPJ member, Pipkins adheres to established principles of ethical reporting, including accuracy, fairness, source protection, and independent journalism.

Election

New Poll Shows Crockett, Paxton Leading Texas Senate Primary Contests

Published

on

Jasmine Crockett Takes the Lead in Race with Talarico

Texas Senate Primaries Show Early Leads for Crockett and Paxton

AUSTIN, Texas – A new poll released by The Texas Tribune indicates that Jasmine Crockett and Ken Paxton are leading their respective primary races for the U.S. Senate seat in Texas. The survey, published on February 9, 2026, highlights the early momentum for both candidates as they vie for their party nominations in a closely watched election cycle. The results point to strong voter recognition and support for Crockett in the Democratic primary and Paxton in the Republican primary.

The poll, conducted among likely primary voters across the state, shows Crockett holding a significant lead over her Democratic challenger James Talarico, while Paxton maintains a commanding position among Republican contenders John Cornyn & Wesley Hunt.

According to the poll, Ken Paxton leads with 38 percent of likely GOP primary voters, pulling ahead of incumbent John Cornyn, who trails at 31 percent, while Wesley Hunt remains a distant third at 17 percent. The survey indicates Paxton would hold a commanding advantage in a runoff scenario and currently outperforms Cornyn across nearly every key Republican demographic group, with Latino voters the lone exception, where Cornyn maintains a seven-point edge.

Among Democrats, the poll shows Jasmine Crockett opening a notable lead, capturing 47 percent of likely primary voters compared to 39 percent for James Talarico—a meaningful shift from earlier polling that had Talarico in the lead. While still early, the numbers suggest momentum is consolidating ahead of primaries that will determine the general election matchups.

Jasmine Crockett, a sitting U.S. Representative whose district lines were redrawn out from under her, has responded to political extinction with a desperate lurch toward the U.S. Senate. Her campaign, widely criticized as race-baiting and grievance-driven, has leaned heavily on inflaming urban Democratic turnout while cloaking thin policy substance in fashionable slogans about healthcare and “equity.”

By contrast, Ken Paxton enters the race with a long, battle-tested record as Texas Attorney General, earning fierce loyalty from conservatives for his aggressive defense of state sovereignty, constitutional limits, and successful legal challenges to federal overreach. Though relentlessly targeted by opponents, Paxton’s tenure reflects durability, clarity of purpose, and an unapologetic alignment with the voters he represents—qualities that define his standing in the contest.

The Texas U.S. Senate race draws national attention, as the state remains a critical battleground in determining the balance of power in Congress. With incumbent dynamics and shifting voter demographics at play, the primary outcomes will set the stage for a potentially contentious general election. The Texas Tribune poll serves as an initial benchmark, though voter sentiment could evolve as campaigns intensify and debates unfold in the coming weeks.

Continue Reading

Featured

Kristi Noem Commemorates Border Crossing Decline with National Leaders

Published

on

Kristi Noem Border

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem joined national security leaders in a dual-state event to commemorate a historic decline in border crossings, according to an official release from the Department of Homeland Security. The event spanned two locations, Arizona and North Dakota, in a single day, highlighting coordinated efforts to strengthen border security. Noem, alongside other officials, marked the achievement as a significant milestone in national security policy.

The Department of Homeland Security reported a measurable drop in unauthorized border crossings, attributing the success to enhanced enforcement measures and inter-agency collaboration. Specific data on the decline was not detailed in the initial announcement, though officials emphasized the impact of recent policy implementations. The two-state commemoration underscored the geographic breadth of the issue, addressing both southern and northern border concerns.

In Arizona, Noem and security leaders reviewed operations along the southern border, a longstanding focal point for immigration enforcement. Later in the day, the group traveled to North Dakota to assess northern border security, an area often overlooked in national discussions but critical to comprehensive policy. The dual focus aimed to demonstrate a unified approach to protecting all U.S. borders, per the department’s statement.

The official release from Homeland Security included remarks from Noem, who praised the dedication of personnel involved in the effort. “This decline in crossings is a testament to the hard work of our agents and the effectiveness of our strategies,” she said. Her comments were echoed by other leaders present, though no additional direct quotations were provided in the initial report.

Background on the border security initiatives reveals a multi-year push to address vulnerabilities at both entry points. Southern border challenges, particularly in Arizona, have long dominated policy debates due to high volumes of crossings and complex terrain. Meanwhile, northern border issues in states like North Dakota often involve different dynamics, including trade security and seasonal migration patterns. The Department of Homeland Security has prioritized resources for both regions, though specific funding allocations remain undisclosed in the latest update.

The cause of the reported decline ties directly to recent enforcement actions, though exact mechanisms were not specified in the announcement. Officials pointed to improved technology, increased staffing, and stronger partnerships with local and state authorities as contributing factors. Further details on these efforts are expected in forthcoming reports from the department, which has committed to transparency on border metrics.

Opinion

The recognition of a decline in border crossings signals a potential turning point in how the nation secures its frontiers. Celebrating this achievement in two distinct regions reinforces the importance of a comprehensive strategy that does not neglect less-discussed areas like the northern border.

Events like these also serve as a reminder that security is not a partisan issue but a fundamental duty of government. Prioritizing resources and personnel to protect sovereignty while maintaining lawful entry processes should remain a core focus, ensuring that progress is sustained through consistent policy and accountability.

Continue Reading

Featured

Trump Says U.S. Used Classified “Discombobulator” to Paralyze Venezuelan Defenses

Published

on

Trump Discombobulator

CARACAS, VENEZUELA — When President Donald J. Trump dropped the phrase “Discombobulator” in a recent interview, the world sat up and took notice. According to the president, the United States deployed a secret weapon to render Venezuelan military systems useless as U.S. forces executed a daring raid that resulted in the capture of Nicolás Maduro.

In an interview with the New York Post, Trump stated the device “made the equipment not work,” and that Venezuelan radar, missiles, and defensive systems “never got their rockets off” during the operation. “I’m not allowed to talk about it,” he said, referring to the classified nature of the technology.

The remarks have sparked curiosity, skepticism, and intense speculation about what the “Discombobulator” might actually be — and what its use means for U.S. military capability and foreign policy.

What Happened: The Maduro Raid and the Discombobulator Claim

On January 3, 2026, U.S. special operations forces carried out a rapid, highly coordinated mission in Caracas that culminated in the capture of Venezuela’s president, Nicolás Maduro, and his wife, Cilia Flores. The operation, code-named Operation Absolute Resolve, involved aircraft, helicopters, unmanned drones, and elite troops.

Speaking about the raid, Trump took credit for the success, telling the New York Post and others that a classified weapon, the so-called Discombobulator, as he called it, played a decisive role. He claimed that the device disabled Venezuelan military equipment, including systems supplied by Russia and China, before U.S. forces landed.

According to Trump’s account, Venezuelan troops tried to activate their defenses, “pressed buttons,” and found nothing worked. The president’s description suggests a form of electronic or directed-energy warfare — although he offered no detail on mechanism or development.

Context: Military Technology and Secrecy

The U.S. military has long invested in electronic warfare and directed-energy research. Systems that jam radar, disrupt communications, and interfere with electronic signals have been under development for decades. Yet no publicly acknowledged program has been confirmed to match Trump’s description of the Discombobulator.

Wartime secrecy and classification make it entirely plausible that capabilities not widely known could exist. Still, without independent verification or military documentation, journalists and analysts caution against jumping to definitive claims based on the president’s interview alone.

Conservative Commentary and Conclusion (Opinion)

The success of the Maduro raid reflects decisive leadership and a willingness to act where lesser administrations have hesitated. The Discombobulator claim — irrespective of its accuracy — underscores a broader theme: American ingenuity paired with bold strategy is unstoppable.

If such a capability exists and was responsibly employed to save lives and neutralize threats without explosive conflict, it represents a powerful demonstration of military superiority. Critics who mock the name risk missing the larger strategic point.

Whether the Discombobulator ends up in the annals of military history or remains a rhetorical flourish, the episode has already ignited fear in our adversaries about American power, innovation, and military might.


Sources:

  • President Trump comments on “Discombobulator,” PBS NewsHour, Jan. 26, 2026.
  • AP News reporting on Trump’s interview and weapon description.
  • Gulf News analysis of unnamed weapon and its reported effects.
  • Axios on use of U.S. drones and technology in operation.
  • Wikipedia entry on 2026 United States intervention in Venezuela.
Continue Reading