Early Life and Education
Alejandro Mayorkas was born on November 24, 1959, in Havana, Cuba. His family immigrated to the United States when he was a child, and he grew up in Los Angeles, California. He attended Beverly Hills High School before going on to study at Loyola Marymount University, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree. He then went on to attend Loyola Law School and later received a Master’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley.
Legal Career
After completing his education, Mayorkas began his legal career as an attorney in private practice. He later joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Central District of California, where he served as an Assistant United States Attorney. In 1998, he was appointed by President Bill Clinton as the United States Attorney for the Central District of California, making him the first Latino to hold that position.
Department of Homeland Security
In 2009, Mayorkas was nominated by President Barack Obama to serve as the Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). During his tenure, he implemented several reforms to improve efficiency and customer service within the agency. In 2013, he was confirmed as the Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security, becoming the highest-ranking Cuban American in the federal government.
Controversies
Mayorkas’s nomination for Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security was met with some controversy due to allegations of improper intervention in the EB-5 visa program. However, an investigation by the Department of Homeland Security’s Inspector General found no evidence of wrongdoing on his part.
Return to Private Practice
After leaving government service in 2016, Mayorkas returned to private practice as a partner at WilmerHale, a prestigious law firm based in Washington D.C. He specialized in advising clients on cybersecurity and privacy matters, as well as government investigations and regulatory compliance.
Return to Public Service
In 2021, Mayorkas was once again called upon to serve in the Biden administration, this time as the Secretary of Homeland Security. In this role, he has been tasked with overseeing the department’s efforts to secure the nation’s borders, protect against terrorism and other threats, and enforce immigration laws in a fair and humane manner.
Personal Life
Mayorkas is married to Tanya Mayorkas, and they have two daughters together, Amelia and Giselle. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, playing tennis, and reading historical fiction novels.
Legacy
Alejandro Mayorkas has had a long and distinguished career in public service, spanning both Democratic and Republican administrations. He has been praised for his dedication to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of immigrants and refugees. His leadership at the Department of Homeland Security has been characterized by a commitment to transparency, accountability, and collaboration with stakeholders.
Accolades
Throughout his career, Mayorkas has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the legal profession and public service. These include recognition from organizations such as the Hispanic National Bar Association and the American Bar Association.
