Markwayne Mullin confirmed as DHS secretary in 54-45 Senate vote
CBSN
Washington — The Senate confirmed Markwayne Mullin as secretary of the Department of Homeland Security on Monday, finalizing President Trump's shakeup of DHS following months of scrutiny of Kristi Noem's leadership.
Washington — The Senate confirmed Markwayne Mullin as secretary of the Department of Homeland Security on Monday, finalizing President Trump's shakeup of DHS following months of scrutiny of Kristi Noem's leadership.
In a 54-45 vote, the Senate confirmed Mullin, an Oklahoma Republican who's been in the Senate since 2023. Democratic Sens. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania and Martin Heinrich of New Mexico voted in favor of Mullin's confirmation. Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky was the sole Republican to oppose Mullin.
The upheaval at DHS culminated in Noem's ouster as secretary earlier this month. Noem's handling of two deadly shootings by federal agents during the immigration crackdown in Minneapolis in January prompted criticism from Democrats and Republicans and kickstarted an impasse over funding for the agency that has persisted. But it was criticism over Noem's advertising spending at a congressional hearing days before her ouster that appeared to seal her fate.
Mullin will take over DHS at a critical period, with the shutdown of the department nearing 40 days. Democrats have opposed funding DHS without reforms to its immigration enforcement agencies. But the two sides have appeared more willing to engage in recent weeks, especially as TSA staffing shortages have snarled air travel and increased pressure on lawmakers to reach a deal. Senators have been negotiating with White House border czar Tom Homan, but Mullin could take on a leading role in the talks going forward.
Mullin said at his confirmation hearing last week that his leadership will differ from Noem's. He said his style is "empowering people." And he indicated that agents will be required to secure judicial warrants to enter homes and businesses, marking a key change from DHS' previous position.
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