Trump's Homeland Security Nominee Mullin Traces Bond to Son's Injury

Sen. Markwayne Mullin, Trump's pick to lead DHS, says his close relationship with the former president stems from a personal tragedy in 2020.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 4:18pm

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Sen. Markwayne Mullin, Donald Trump's nominee to replace Kristi Noem as Homeland Security secretary, traces his close bond with the president to a scary personal moment in 2020, when Mullin's son suffered a severe brain injury during a high school wrestling match. Trump took a special interest in the teenager, offering to fly the family to medical specialists and pay for treatments. Mullin said the president's concern during their family's ordeal solidified their friendship.

Why it matters

Trump's selection of Mullin, one of his fiercest defenders in the U.S. Senate, is a reflection of a president who places high value on loyalty and personal relationships. The goal is to steady a department vital to Trump's centerpiece policy of mass deportations with a trusted ally.

The details

Mullin, 48, is poised to join Trump's cabinet as the next leader of the Department of Homeland Security, the massive agency whose immigration crackdown became a target of widening criticism under Noem, who was fired earlier this month. Mullin was 34 and the owner of a fast-growing plumbing company in 2012 when he decided to run for an open seat in Oklahoma's 2nd Congressional District. After arriving in Washington, Mullin was known for forging friendships with Democrats, many of which he developed while leading early-morning workouts inside the members-only House gym. Since joining the Senate, Mullin has taken a leading role in amplifying Trump's messages and supported the former president's failed attempt to overturn the 2020 election.

  • In 2020, Mullin's son suffered a severe brain injury during a high school wrestling match.
  • In 2024, Mullin told a campaign rally crowd about Trump's support during his son's recovery.
  • In March 2026, Mullin had his Senate confirmation hearing to become the next Homeland Security secretary.

The players

Markwayne Mullin

A 48-year-old Republican senator from Oklahoma who is Donald Trump's nominee to replace Kristi Noem as Homeland Security secretary. Mullin traces his close bond with the former president to a personal tragedy in 2020 when his son suffered a severe brain injury.

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who nominated Mullin to lead the Department of Homeland Security. Trump took a personal interest in Mullin's son's recovery, offering to fly the family to specialists and pay for treatments.

Kristi Noem

The former Homeland Security secretary who was fired earlier this month, paving the way for Mullin's nomination.

Jim Mullin

Markwayne Mullin's son, who suffered a severe brain injury during a high school wrestling match in 2020 that brought Mullin and Trump closer together.

Mike Stopp

Markwayne Mullin's former chief of staff who says Mullin is one of the few people who can disagree with Trump and still maintain his respect.

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What they’re saying

“You know, someone loves your kids, you're going to love that guy forever. He's a friend of yours.”

— Markwayne Mullin, U.S. Senator

“He was running in one of the toughest elections he had been in, and the guy was still that concerned about my son. We were acquaintances before that. We've been friends ever since.”

— Markwayne Mullin, U.S. Senator

“He has no problem telling the president what he thinks. They're at that point in their relationship.”

— Mike Stopp, Former Chief of Staff to Markwayne Mullin

What’s next

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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.