Kristi Noem Out as Homeland Security Secretary, Senator Markwayne Mullin to Take Reins

In a significant shakeup at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), President Trump has fired Secretary Kristi Noem and appointed Senator Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma as her replacement. The move, announced on March 5, 2026, marks the first cabinet departure of Trump’s second term. Noem will transition to a new role as the Special Envoy for The Shield of the Americas – Western Hemisphere, a new security initiative set to be unveiled on Saturday in Doral, Florida.

Noem’s Tenure and Accomplishments

During her time as DHS Secretary, Noem oversaw what the Department described as its most successful period ever. Key accomplishments highlighted by the DHS include delivering what they claim was the most secure border in American history, a reported departure of 3 million undocumented immigrants from the U.S., the location of 145,000 missing children, a 100% faster rate of disaster relief delivery by FEMA, improvements to air travel, $13 billion in taxpayer savings, and revitalization of the U.S. Coast Guard. Source

“Thank you, President Trump, for appointing me as the Special Envoy for the Shield of the Americas – Western Hemisphere,” Noem stated. “Secretary Rubio and Secretary Hegseth are incredible leaders, and I look forward to working with them closely to dismantle cartels that have poured drugs into our nation and killed our children and grandchildren.”

Controversies and Congressional Scrutiny

The dismissal follows two days of intense questioning from lawmakers in Congress regarding Noem’s leadership at DHS. Source The specific nature of these controversies was not detailed in available sources, but prompted the change in leadership.

Mullin’s Appointment and Background

Senator Markwayne Mullin, a Republican from Oklahoma, will succeed Noem as DHS Secretary. President Trump described Mullin as a “MAGA Warrior” and a former professional MMA fighter, emphasizing his ability to build consensus and advance the “America First” agenda. Source Trump also noted that Mullin is the only Native American currently serving in the Senate.

Democratic Reaction

Democrats have expressed mixed reactions to Noem’s ousting. While celebrating her departure – citing concerns over immigration crackdowns and incidents resulting in the deaths of U.S. Citizens – they also cautioned that the issues within DHS extend beyond Noem’s leadership. Source Some Democrats, like Senator Andy Kim, have already indicated they will not vote to confirm Mullin’s appointment. Source Calls for accountability for Noem, as well as other officials like Greg Bovino and Stephen Miller, have also been made.

Other Developments

Alongside the DHS leadership change, President Trump is scheduled to meet with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK party, is also expected to meet with Trump to discuss the Chagos Island deal. The U.S. Supreme Court is set to consider cases for the upcoming term, including Trump’s petition regarding the E. Jean Carroll verdict. A Jan. 6 Capitol rioter who received a presidential pardon was sentenced to life in prison for unrelated crimes.