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Senate confirms Markwayne Mullin as DHS secretary in 54-45 vote

Mar 24th 2026 · United States

The Senate confirmed Oklahoma Republican Markwayne Mullin as Homeland Security secretary in a 54-45 vote, ending a leadership shakeup at DHS as lawmakers negotiate funding and enforcement reforms.

  • The Senate confirmed Markwayne Mullin as Department of Homeland Security secretary by a 54-45 vote.
  • Democrats John Fetterman and Martin Heinrich voted with Republicans to confirm Mullin while Sen. Rand Paul was the lone Republican opponent.
  • Mullin replaces Kristi Noem after criticism of her handling of two deadly federal agent shootings and controversial ad spending.
  • DHS has been operating amid nearly 40 days of a shutdown as lawmakers debate funding and immigration enforcement reforms.
  • Mullin said agents would be required to secure judicial warrants to enter homes and businesses, signaling a policy shift.
  • His confirmation creates a vacant Senate seat in Oklahoma that Governor Kevin Stitt is expected to fill, likely with Alan Armstrong.

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