NEWS Markwayne Mullin Confirmed As DHS Secretary

Markwayne Mullin, a Republican senator from Oklahoma, was confirmed by the U.S. Senate in a 54–45 vote to serve as the ninth Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, bringing an end to the search for a successor to outgoing Secretary Kristi Noem. The confirmation marks a significant transition for Mullin, concluding his 13-year career in Congress.

Mullin first entered federal office as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives before winning election to the Senate in 2021. During his time in Congress, he developed a reputation as a bridge between the House and Senate, helping build cooperation between the chambers. Lawmakers credited him with fostering trust during last year’s effort to pass what supporters referred to as the “big, beautiful bill.” Mullin was joined by his family when he cast what would be his final Senate vote—his own confirmation.

Donald Trump nominated Mullin earlier this month, and the confirmation largely followed party lines. However, two Democrats — Martin Heinrich of New Mexico and John Fetterman of Pennsylvania — broke ranks to support the nomination. Heinrich explained that his decision stemmed from his experience working alongside Mullin as co-chair of the Senate Legislative Branch spending committee.

Heinrich said Mullin demonstrated independence and would not be easily pressured to change his positions. He also expressed hope that Mullin would operate independently of Stephen Miller, a senior Trump adviser known for his strong immigration stance.

The only Republican to oppose Mullin was Rand Paul of Kentucky, who cited personal tensions and past remarks Mullin made about a 2017 incident that Paul said strained their relationship.

Mullin’s confirmation comes after a turbulent period for Homeland Security leadership. The past month included the deaths of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti, who were reportedly shot during encounters involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, as well as Noem’s reassignment following two contentious congressional hearings.

Despite the leadership change, Senate Democrats have maintained their opposition to several Republican proposals. Along with attempts by Republicans to extend DHS funding, Democrats have blocked funding for ICE five times while continuing to call for broader reforms to immigration enforcement policies.

Negotiations to avoid a prolonged shutdown faced additional complications over the weekend. Chuck Schumer, Senate Minority Leader from New York, and Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota initially described talks between both parties as productive. However, Trump complicated negotiations Sunday night in a post on Truth Social, urging Republicans not to reach a deal unless Democrats supported the SAVE America Act.

Trump also suggested eliminating the filibuster and keeping lawmakers in Washington through Easter if necessary. Thune had previously floated separating funding for ICE and Customs and Border Protection from a broader DHS package, possibly using budget reconciliation to move forward.

With many senators already absent for recess, canceling the break may prove difficult. When asked whether he would call lawmakers back, Thune responded cautiously, saying, “We’ll see.”

Following a meeting between Trump and Senate Republicans, Katie Britt of Alabama said discussions went well and indicated Republicans were working on a plan to prevent a shutdown.

Meanwhile, Democrats remain unified in opposing the Safeguarding American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. Schumer said Democrats were prepared to continue negotiations but claimed a scheduled meeting with immigration official Tom Homan was canceled by the White House, which he attributed to tensions following Trump’s latest remarks.