Trump Taps Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin to Lead DHS

President Donald Trump has nominated Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin to serve as the next Secretary of Homeland Security, following the firing of Kristi Noem. The announcement, made on Thursday, March 5, 2026, concludes a period of reported frustration from President Trump regarding Noem’s performance .

Mullin’s Background and Confirmation

Senator Mullin, a Republican first elected to Congress in 2012, is known for his background as a plumbing company owner and a “fighter’s reputation” . He stated he intends to focus the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on “protecting the homeland” . His nomination requires confirmation by the Senate .

Noem’s Transition

Kristi Noem, the former Secretary of Homeland Security, will transition to a new role as Special Envoy for The Shield of the Americas, a new security initiative in the Western Hemisphere, to be announced on Saturday, March 8, 2026, in Doral, Florida . President Trump praised Noem’s service, particularly her function on border security .

DHS Challenges

Mullin’s appointment comes during a period of challenges for DHS, including a partial government shutdown affecting agencies like the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Transportation Security Administration, and the Coast Guard. This shutdown is linked to a funding dispute over Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) .

Trump’s Second Term

This marks the first Cabinet secretary President Trump has fired during his second term .