WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Senate on March 23, 2026, confirmed Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) as the new United States Secretary of Homeland Security, approving his nomination in a 54–45 vote largely along party lines.
Mullin, an Oklahoma Republican and former member of the U.S. House of Representatives, was nominated by President Donald Trump to lead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), replacing Kristi Noem. Noem was removed from the position earlier in the month following a period of intense public and congressional scrutiny over the department’s immigration enforcement tactics.
Two Democrats, John Fetterman (PA) and Martin Heinrich (NM), joined Republicans in supporting Mullin’s confirmation, while Sen. Rand Paul (KY) was the only Republican to vote against the nomination.
Mullin’s confirmation followed what was described as a “fiery” confirmation hearing in Senate committee proceedings, where he faced questioning about his past actions and views on political violence.
Prior to his appointment, Mullin served as a U.S. Senator from Oklahoma and previously represented the state in the U.S. House of Representatives. He is also known as a former mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter and small business owner.
As Secretary of Homeland Security, Mullin will take charge of the administration’s immigration enforcement efforts and border security priorities at a time when the agency is facing mounting pressure related to immigration and travel safety.
He assumes leadership of DHS during a particularly demanding period, as the department remains in a partial shutdown amid ongoing budget standoffs in Congress.
During his confirmation hearing, Mullin signaled that, while supportive of the administration’s immigration agenda, he would require judicial warrants for agents seeking to enter private homes or businesses, marking a shift from the approach taken by his predecessor.
Mullin’s appointment comes as DHS continues to face significant operational and political challenges tied to immigration enforcement and broader national security responsibilities.
