Markwayne Mullin faces bipartisan pushback at confirmation hearing for Noem's DHS job

CBS News
March 18, 2026
3 min read

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Oklahoma Sen. Markwayne Mullin faced bipartisan criticism at his confirmation hearing for DHS secretary, succeeding Kristen Noem.

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Oklahoma Sen. Markwayne Mullin faced bipartisan criticism during his confirmation hearing Wednesday for the position of Department of Homeland Security secretary, succeeding Kristen Noem. The hearing revealed resistance not only from Democrats but also from Republican senators, a notable sign of internal party divisions over his nomination. DHS secretary is a cabinet-level post overseeing border security, immigration enforcement, and cybersecurity—roles central to the Trump administration's policy agenda. Confirmation hearings typically serve as a crucial test of a nominee's preparedness and political viability, with Senate votes to follow. Mullin will need to secure enough Republican support to advance through committee and gain confirmation on the full Senate floor.

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