Senate Advances Mullin Nomination to Lead Homeland Security

Final confirmation vote expected as early as Monday

Mar. 22, 2026 at 8:10pm

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The U.S. Senate voted 54-37 to advance the nomination of Oklahoma GOP Sen. Markwayne Mullin to lead the Department of Homeland Security. The procedural vote sets up a final confirmation vote as early as Monday. Democratic Sens. John Fetterman and Martin Heinrich joined Republicans in supporting Mullin's nomination.

Why it matters

The Department of Homeland Security has been without a permanent leader since February, amid a stalemate over changes to immigration enforcement policy. Mullin's confirmation would fill this key leadership role at a time of ongoing challenges for the department.

The details

Mullin's nomination advanced out of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee in a party-line 8-7 vote, with Fetterman joining all Republicans. During Mullin's confirmation hearing, Sen. Rand Paul questioned whether Mullin could lead the department given his 'anger issues' and past comments criticizing Paul. Outgoing DHS Secretary Kristi Noem also faced bipartisan criticism over her handling of a fatal shooting incident in Minneapolis.

  • The Senate voted on the procedural motion to advance Mullin's nomination on Sunday, March 22, 2026.
  • A final confirmation vote on Mullin's nomination is expected as early as Monday, March 23, 2026.

The players

Markwayne Mullin

Oklahoma GOP Senator nominated to lead the Department of Homeland Security.

John Fetterman

Democratic Senator from Pennsylvania who voted to advance Mullin's nomination.

Martin Heinrich

Democratic Senator from New Mexico who voted to advance Mullin's nomination.

Rand Paul

Republican Senator from Kentucky who chairs the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee and questioned Mullin's 'anger issues' during the confirmation hearing.

Kristi Noem

Outgoing Department of Homeland Security Secretary who faced bipartisan criticism over her handling of a fatal shooting incident in Minneapolis.

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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.