Markwayne Mullin Makes His Case for DHS But Faces Senate Pushback Over His Temperament

WASHINGTON (AP) — Markwayne Mullin, President Donald Trump’s nominee for homeland security secretary, appeared before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, to make his case for the position. He sought to assure senators he would provide steady leadership for a department that has faced controversy under previous Secretary Kristi Noem, but also signaled his commitment to Trump’s hard-line immigration policies and defended himself against concerns about his temperament.

Mullin Sheds Light on His Immigration Views

The Oklahoma Republican addressed questions regarding his vision for a department tasked with implementing the Republican administration’s focus on increased deportations. Democrats have temporarily halted routine funding for the Department of Homeland Security amid demands for restraints on immigration enforcement following the deaths of American citizens involving federal agents.

Throughout the hearing, Mullin moderated his tone on some of the administration’s more contentious policies. He retracted a previous description of Alex Pretti, a Minneapolis man shot by federal immigration officers, as “deranged,” stating, “I shouldn’t have said that and as secretary, I wouldn’t.”

He indicated that, if confirmed, he would ensure that federal officers obtain a warrant signed by a judge before forcibly entering homes for arrests, except in limited circumstances. This addresses concerns about the use of administrative warrants, which some argue bypass constitutional protections.

Mullin urged senators to restore routine funding to DHS, stating, “We have to get DHS funded. We have to realize that we’re putting our homeland and the peace of mind at risk for the American people.”

Committee Chair Challenges Mullin’s Fitness for the Role

The hearing began with a contentious exchange between Senator Rand Paul, the committee chair, and Mullin. Paul questioned Mullin’s suitability for the position, referencing comments Mullin made after a funding dispute where he reportedly called Paul a “freaking snake.” This rhetoric mirrored previous criticisms from President Trump.

“I just wonder if someone who applauds violence against their political opponents is the right person to lead an agency that has struggled to accept limits to the proper use of force?” Paul asked.

According to Oklahoma conservative talk reveal host David Arnett, Mullin had stated he understood why a neighbor attacked Paul following a lawn care dispute. Mullin responded to Paul, stating, “For you to say I’m a liar, Sir, that’s not accurate,” and acknowledged, “We just don’t get along.”

A Loyal Trump Ally

Mullin, a former mixed martial arts fighter and plumbing business owner, is expected to be a strong ally for President Trump’s agenda if confirmed. The White House stated that Mullin will “function tirelessly to implement the President’s agenda” regarding border security and immigration enforcement.

Senator Gary Peters, the committee’s top Democrat, emphasized the need for “straightforward” changes at DHS, aligning with established rules and law enforcement practices. He expressed reservations about Mullin’s readiness for the role, citing the challenges facing the department, including threats from Iran and cyberattacks.

DHS Under Scrutiny

The hearing took place as a partial government shutdown continued, leading to longer security lines at U.S. Airports due to unpaid security screeners. Republicans have accused Democrats of jeopardizing national security by blocking funding for the department.

Mullin also addressed the future of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), following Trump’s suggestions for potential overhauls. Mullin indicated he would focus on “restructuring” FEMA rather than eliminating it. He also stated he would not be a “micromanager,” referencing a policy under Noem that required her approval for all contracts exceeding $100,000, which caused delays in state reimbursements.