DHS Nominee Mullin Says Homeland Security Needs Funding as He Faces Confirmation Hearing
Mar 18, 2026
WASHINGTON (AP) — Markwayne Mullin is telling senators he wants to steady the Department of Homeland Security, fund it and keep it out of constant controversy. The Republican Oklahoma senator appeared Wednesday for his confirmation hearing as President Donald Trump’s pick to lead DHS after Kris
ti Noem was fired.
Mullin says Congress must drop partisanship and end a shutdown that’s left many DHS workers without pay. The hearing turned tense when committee chair Rand Paul attacked Mullin over past remarks and questioned his temperament. Democrats are expected to press Mullin on mass deportations and officer conduct after clashes and deaths tied to enforcement sweeps. Senators are also expected to bring up Federal Emergency Management Agency disaster reimbursements.
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