Updated on: March 23, 2026 / 9:54 PM EDT / CBS News
Washington — The Senate confirmed Oklahoma Republican Markwayne Mullin as secretary of the Department of Homeland Security on Monday by a 54-45 vote, completing President Trump’s leadership change at DHS after months of scrutiny of former Secretary Kristi Noem.
Democratic Sens. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania and Martin Heinrich of New Mexico joined Republicans in supporting Mullin; Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky was the only Republican to oppose him. Mullin, a senator since 2023 and a former decade-long House member, will take the helm as the department nears a nearly 40-day shutdown tied to a funding impasse and disputes over immigration enforcement reforms.
Noem was removed earlier this month after criticism over her handling of two deadly shootings by federal agents during an immigration crackdown in Minneapolis and controversial advertising spending revealed at a congressional hearing. Mullin has said his leadership style will differ from Noem’s, describing himself as “empowering people” and signaling policy changes such as requiring judicial warrants for agents to enter homes and businesses.
President Trump praised Mullin, saying he would “be fantastic” and make his own changes. Mullin’s role could become central in negotiations over DHS funding and operations; senators and White House border czar Tom Homan have been involved in talks amid TSA staffing shortages that have disrupted air travel.
In the Senate, Mullin has acted as a bridge to the House and the White House. The 48-year-old business owner and former MMA fighter is known for working across the aisle and has cultivated relationships with some Democrats—relationships that helped secure Heinrich’s and Fetterman’s support. Heinrich called Mullin a friend with a “very honest and constructive working relationship,” saying he expects a secretary who won’t simply take orders from the White House.
Paul, who chaired the committee that held Mullin’s confirmation hearing, opposed advancing the nomination out of committee and criticized Mullin at the hearing for alleged past comments and for reportedly applauding violence against political opponents. Fetterman’s vote in committee ultimately allowed the nomination to proceed.
Mullin’s confirmation creates a vacancy in the Senate. Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt is expected to appoint a replacement quickly; Stitt is widely anticipated to name oil and gas executive Alan Armstrong to serve until a special election fills the remainder of Mullin’s term.
In: United States Department of Homeland Security; Markwayne Mullin; Trump Administration