North Texas News

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Michael C. Burgess, Vice Chairman of the House Rules Committee, delivered a speech today in support of the rule and underlying bills H. Res. 863 and H.R. 485. The House begins consideration of articles of impeachment against federal officials, specifically Alejandro Nicholas Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security. Mr. Burgess accused Mayorkas of willful and systematic refusal to comply with the law and breach of public trust.

Burgess stated, "Secretary Mayorkas has shown his willful and systematic refusal to comply with the law time and time again." He criticized Mayorkas for implementing a mass catch-and-release program, releasing apprehended illegal migrants into the interior of the country without ensuring their return before an immigration court. Burgess also accused Mayorkas of misusing parole authority and failing to put in place initiatives to maintain operational control of the southwest border.

Burgess highlighted the alarming number of illegal migrants encountered at the border since President Biden took office, stating, "U.S. Customs and Border Protection has encountered more than 7 million illegal migrants along the southwest border – 3.3 million of whom have been released into the U.S. interior – including 312 individuals on the Terrorist Screening Dataset." He emphasized that the border is not secure and that Mayorkas's negligence is endangering American families and communities.

Burgess expressed his frustration with Mayorkas's lies and refusal to resign, stating, "Every day that Mayorkas remains at the head of DHS is another day of pathetic disservice to the American people." He called for accountability for those who have willfully refused to honor their oath to protect the border and the country.

In addition to discussing the impeachment proceedings, Burgess also spoke about H.R. 485, the Protecting Health Care for All Patients Act. He explained that the bill aims to preserve access to lifesaving cures and prevent discrimination against Americans with disabilities. Burgess criticized the use of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) in cost-effectiveness analyses, stating that they discriminate against people with disabilities. He argued that it is not the government's place to determine the value of a person's life and called for the prohibition of QALYs in all federal programs.

Burgess concluded his speech by urging his fellow Members to support the rule and underlying bills. He emphasized the importance of holding Secretary Mayorkas accountable and preserving access to quality healthcare for all patients.

The debate on the rule and underlying bills continues in the House.