The U.S. Senate on Monday confirmed Senator Markwayne Mullin as Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, approving his nomination in a 54–45 vote.
Mullin will replace Kristi Noem, who was reassigned earlier this month, as the department faces ongoing operational challenges during a partial government shutdown that has affected its funding.
The vote saw limited bipartisan support, with Democratic Senators John Fetterman and Martin Heinrich backing the nomination, while Republican Senator Rand Paul voted against it.
President Donald Trump nominated Mullin in early March, citing his experience in Congress and support for border security policies as key factors behind the decision.
Officials said Mullin is expected to assume leadership immediately, with priorities likely to include border enforcement, countering illegal drug flows and maintaining domestic security operations.
The department’s funding situation and broader policy direction are expected to remain under close scrutiny as Mullin begins his tenure.