Trump Taps Markwayne Mullin to Lead DHS, Focus on Deportation

Oklahoma Senator Mullin to replace Kristi Noem as Homeland Security secretary, signaling shift in leadership and priorities.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 9:39am

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President Donald Trump has nominated Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin (R) to lead the Department of Homeland Security, replacing Kristi Noem. Mullin, a former plumber and MMA fighter, is seen as a political outsider and loyal supporter of the President. The change in leadership comes amid scrutiny over Noem's performance and disagreements with the administration.

Why it matters

The replacement of Secretary Noem suggests a desire for greater alignment and loyalty within the administration, potentially signaling a shift in emphasis toward prioritizing the President's preferences over independent action or public visibility at DHS.

The details

Senator Mullin brings a distinctly unconventional background to the role, having previously worked as a plumber, MMA fighter, and businessman. The change in leadership comes after increasing scrutiny of Noem's performance, particularly following the deaths of U.S. Citizens Alex Pretti and Renee Nicole Fine at the hands of federal agents. According to political reporter Reese Gorman, President Trump often prioritizes loyalty when selecting Cabinet members.

  • President Trump has nominated Markwayne Mullin to lead the Department of Homeland Security.
  • Mullin's confirmation hearing in the Senate is scheduled for next week.

The players

Markwayne Mullin

An Oklahoma Senator and member of the Cherokee Nation, with a background as a plumber, MMA fighter, and businessman.

Kristi Noem

The former Secretary of Homeland Security, who was replaced by Mullin.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States, who nominated Mullin to lead the Department of Homeland Security.

Reese Gorman

A political reporter for NOTUS, who commented on President Trump's tendency to prioritize loyalty when selecting Cabinet members.

Alex Pretti

A U.S. Citizen who died at the hands of federal agents, contributing to the scrutiny of Noem's performance.

Renee Nicole Fine

A U.S. Citizen who died at the hands of federal agents, contributing to the scrutiny of Noem's performance.

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What they’re saying

“Trump really tends to pick people who he likes and likewise just who would give him loyalty.”

— Reese Gorman, Political reporter

What’s next

The relationship between Trump and Mullin reportedly deepened after Mullin's son experienced a life-threatening injury, with Trump offering support and regular check-ins. The final break with Noem, however, stemmed from disagreements over a $220 million ad campaign and her handling of questions regarding a potential relationship with a political advisor.

The takeaway

As the Department of Homeland Security navigates ongoing controversies and funding challenges, Senator Mullin's appointment signals a shift in leadership and priorities, with a focus on greater alignment and loyalty within the administration, potentially at the expense of independent action or public visibility.