Trump Fires Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Names Senator Markwayne Mullin as Replacement

President Donald Trump has removed Kristi Noem from her position as Secretary of Homeland Security, naming Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma as her successor. The announcement, made on March 5, 2026, via Trump’s social media account, marks the first departure of a cabinet secretary during his second term.

Noem’s New Role

According to the President’s post, Noem will transition to the role of Special Envoy for “The Shield of the Americas,” a new security initiative in the Western Hemisphere set to be unveiled on Saturday in Doral, Florida. Trump expressed gratitude for Noem’s service at the Department of Homeland Security.

Congressional Scrutiny and DHS Shutdown

Noem’s dismissal follows two days of intense questioning by lawmakers in Congress regarding her leadership of the department. The scrutiny occurred amidst a partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security and recent shootings involving border patrol agents. During the hearings, Noem faced criticism from both Democrats and Republicans regarding immigration enforcement tactics, agency spending, and overall leadership.

Markwayne Mullin’s Appointment

Senator Mullin, a staunch defender of the President’s immigration agenda, will need Senate confirmation to permanently assume the role of Homeland Security Secretary. Trump praised Mullin as a “MAGA Warrior” and highlighted his background as a former professional MMA fighter, emphasizing his ability to build consensus and advance the “America First Agenda.” Trump also noted Mullin’s unique position as the only Native American in the Senate.

Noem’s Tenure at DHS

Prior to her removal, Noem, formerly the governor of South Dakota, spearheaded the administration’s efforts toward mass deportations. During her time leading the 250,000-person agency, DHS focused on arresting, detaining, and deporting individuals without legal status, deporting 605,000 people and reaching a historic high in immigration detention numbers. She oversaw a hiring surge for Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers and expanded the presence of Border Patrol agents nationwide.

Recent Challenges and Departures at DHS

Noem’s leadership faced bipartisan criticism, particularly following an immigration enforcement surge in Minneapolis that resulted in the deaths of two U.S. Citizens. She also drew fire for referring to Alex Pretti, who was shot by border patrol agents, as a “domestic terrorist” before a full investigation was completed.

Noem’s departure is the latest in a series of recent changes within the department. Madison Sheehan, former Immigration and Customs Enforcement deputy director, left her post earlier this year to pursue a congressional bid, and Tricia McLaughlin, a top agency spokesperson, resigned last month.

Mullin’s Responsibilities

If confirmed, Mullin will oversee a broad range of security issues, including the Coast Guard, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), counter-terrorism efforts, aviation security, and cybersecurity.

Trump’s cabinet turnover has been relatively minimal during his second term, contrasting with his first term, which saw five different Homeland Security Secretaries, including three acting secretaries.