House Republicans Back Mullin for DHS, Citing Border Security Priorities

Nearly 50 GOP lawmakers endorse Mullin to lead Department of Homeland Security after Noem's ouster

Mar. 10, 2026 at 1:03am

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Nearly 50 House Republicans have written to President Trump endorsing Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., to lead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) after Kristi Noem's departure. The GOP Main Street Caucus is formally backing Mullin, citing his commitment to border security and support for pro-America policies. The lawmakers also praised the work of White House Border Czar Tom Homan and called for a targeted crackdown on illegal immigrant criminals in the U.S.

Why it matters

This endorsement of Mullin for the DHS role by a sizable group of House Republicans signals a desire for stronger border security measures and immigration enforcement, particularly targeting criminal offenders, at a critical time for the agency. It also reflects growing concerns over Noem's handling of DHS and the need for new leadership to address these priorities.

The details

The Main Street Caucus, led by Rep. Mike Flood, R-Neb., and signed by 48 other GOP lawmakers, wrote a letter to President Trump backing Mullin's nomination. They cited Mullin's 'steadfast commitment to border security' and 'familiarity with the legislative process' as making him well-suited to lead DHS. The caucus also praised the work of White House Border Czar Tom Homan, meeting with him last week, and called for a focus on deporting the 'worst criminal offenders' while repealing sanctuary policies that 'undermine public safety'.

  • Last week, approximately two dozen members of the GOP Main Street Caucus met with White House Border Czar Tom Homan.
  • Mullin was tapped by President Trump last week to lead the Department of Homeland Security, replacing Kristi Noem.

The players

Markwayne Mullin

A Republican senator from Oklahoma who has been endorsed by nearly 50 House GOP lawmakers to lead the Department of Homeland Security.

Kristi Noem

The former head of the Department of Homeland Security who was ousted from her role by President Trump.

Tom Homan

The White House Border Czar who has been praised by the GOP Main Street Caucus for his approach to immigration enforcement.

Mike Flood

The Republican representative from Nebraska who chairs the GOP Main Street Caucus.

Greg Bovino

The former Customs and Border Patrol official in Minneapolis who was replaced by Tom Homan during Trump's immigration operation in the city.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This endorsement of Mullin for DHS leadership by a sizable group of House Republicans signals a desire for stronger border security measures and a more targeted approach to immigration enforcement, particularly against criminal offenders, at a critical juncture for the agency.