Trump Fires Homeland Security Secretary Noem, Taps Senator Mullin as Replacement

President Donald Trump fired Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Thursday, March 5, 2026, marking the first Cabinet secretary to leave her post during his second term. Senator Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma has been nominated to replace her, effective March 31, 2026.

Reasons for Noem’s Removal

According to an administration official, the decision to remove Noem stemmed from “a culmination of her many unfortunate leadership failures,” including fallout from issues in Minnesota, a controversial ad campaign, allegations of infidelity, mismanagement of staff, and frequent disagreements with heads of other agencies like Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). NBC News reported that Noem’s “drama sadly overshadowed and distracted from the Administration’s extremely popular immigration agenda.”

Mullin’s Appointment

Trump announced his intention to appoint Senator Mullin via Truth Social, praising him as a “fiercely loyal” senator. NBC News reported Trump stated, “I am pleased to announce that the Highly Respected United States Senator from the Great State of Oklahoma, Markwayne Mullin, will become the United States Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS).”

Noem’s New Role

Following her departure from DHS, Noem will assume a new position as “Envoy for The Shield of the Americas,” leading a new security initiative in the Western Hemisphere. NBC News reported that Trump described the role as focused on security and countering narcotics trafficking.

Recent Criticism and Oversight

Noem recently appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee for an oversight hearing on March 3, 2026. The Associated Press noted that her firing followed mounting criticism over her leadership, particularly regarding the administration’s immigration policies and disaster response.

Political Reactions

California Governor Gavin Newsom seized on Noem’s firing, stating, “Donald Trump is in retreat.” USA Today reported Newsom’s comments, made during a campaign event, similarly targeted Stephen Miller, a senior advisor in the Trump administration.