SPLC Action: Senate Must Confirm Mayorkas Without Further Delay

WASHINGTON – After the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs today concluded its confirmation hearing on Alejandro Mayorkas, president-elect Biden’s nominee for Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary, Sen. Josh Hawley announced he would delay the nomination. The following statement is from Kelli Garcia, federal policy counsel of the SPLC Action Fund. 
 
“The Senate must act quickly to move the nomination of Alejandro Mayorkas out of committee and to a floor vote. With the security of the nation at stake, there’s no time to waste in confirming Mayorkas, who is a dedicated public servant with a record of upholding the law. 
 
“In delaying the vote at this critical hour, Sen. Hawley’s xenophobic ploy reveals his reasoning for delaying the vote is rooted in anything but the safety and security of the nation. After nearly two years without a confirmed Secretary, and in a moment of national crisis, it is imperative that the Senate vote on Mr. Mayorkas’ nomination forthwith.
 
“Mayorkas’ history of respecting due process and upholding the law will be a welcome change to the agency’s current void of leadership. The next Secretary will be charged with undoing the deep damage that the Trump administration has done with DHS, and helping build a fair and humane immigration system. 

“This work can’t wait. For the good of the country, the Senate must vote on his nomination without further delay."