Mayorkas, Wray Skipped Hearing Amid Political Scandals

FBI Director Christopher Wray and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas faced bipartisan condemnation for declining to testify publicly before the Senate Homeland Security Committee, a move that breaks a 15-year precedent. Both officials requested a closed-door briefing, citing the need for classified discussions, which was criticized by lawmakers who argued it undermines transparency and accountability, particularly amid concerns over national security threats. Senate Chairman Gary Peters (D-MI) and other senators, including Rand Paul (R-KY) and Josh Hawley (R-MO), expressed that the refusal damages public trust and oversight efforts. The controversy is compounded by allegations of FEMA bypassing Trump-supporting homes in relief operations and other political scandals. Calls for Wray's resignation and further scrutiny of Mayorkas have surfaced, reflecting the heightened political tensions and demands for accountability. This incident illustrates the challenges in balancing national security with public transparency and legislative oversight.