Trump's Pick for Homeland Security Secretary to Testify

Senator Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma faces confirmation hearing amid controversy over immigration enforcement.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 9:03am

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Senator Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma, President Trump's pick to lead the Department of Homeland Security, is set to face a confirmation hearing on Wednesday. Mullin, a close ally of Trump, is expected to be grilled by Democrats over his stance on immigration enforcement and whether he will reform the agency's controversial practices.

Why it matters

The Homeland Security Department has faced a string of controversies under the previous secretary, Kristi Noem, including the use of excessive force by immigration officers and the mishandling of disaster relief funds. Mullin's confirmation will determine the future direction of the department and its approach to immigration enforcement.

The details

Mullin, who has not served on any congressional committees overseeing immigration, is a staunch defender of the Trump administration's deportation policies. Democrats are likely to use the hearing to push for new restrictions on immigration enforcement, such as barring agents from wearing masks. The department has also faced a funding lapse, with roughly 100,000 employees reporting to work without pay.

  • Mullin's confirmation hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, March 18, 2026.
  • Noem was ousted as Homeland Security secretary and replaced by Mullin about two weeks ago.

The players

Markwayne Mullin

A senator from Oklahoma who was chosen by President Trump to replace the ousted Homeland Security secretary Kristi Noem.

Kristi Noem

The former Homeland Security secretary who was fired by President Trump.

Rand Paul

The chairman of the Senate Homeland Security Committee, who holds libertarian views and has raised concerns about the Trump administration's aggressive immigration crackdown.

Richard Blumenthal

A Democratic senator from Connecticut who has expressed concerns about Mullin's past statements defending the actions of immigration enforcement agencies.

John Fetterman

A Democratic senator from Pennsylvania who has said he will vote to confirm Mullin.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

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 case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.