Senate Advances Markwayne Mullin for DHS Secretary

On March 22, 2026, the U.S.

Senate reached a significant milestone in confirming Senator Markwayne Mullin as the new Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

personMarkwayne Mullin

orgDepartment of Homeland Security

With a 54–37 vote to end debate, Mullin, a Republican from Oklahoma, appears headed for a final confirmation.

locationOklahoma

This follows the controversial departure of Kristi Noem, who was dismissed by President Trump earlier in March.

personKristi Noem

personPresident Trump

During his hearings, Mullin faced tough questions from Senator Rand Paul, who raised concerns about Mullin's temperament and past comments regarding political violence.

personRand Paul

Despite these objections, Mullin has received support from his party and two Democrats, John Fetterman and Martin Heinrich.

personJohn Fetterman

personMartin Heinrich

If confirmed, Mullin would achieve a historic milestone as only the second Native American to hold a presidential Cabinet position.

personNative American

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Comprehension Questions

What historic milestone might Markwayne Mullin reach if confirmed?

He would be the first Native American ever to serve in the U.S. Senate.

He would be the second Native American to serve as a presidential Cabinet member.

He would become the youngest person to ever lead the Department of Homeland Security.

Reveal Answer

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Correct Choice

He would be the second Native American to serve as a presidential Cabinet member.

Why has the Department of Homeland Security been effectively shut down since mid-February 2026?

Because the department building was undergoing mandatory structural renovations.

Due to a major internal scandal involving the resignation of senior staff members.

There is a congressional funding stalemate linked to disputes over immigration policies.

Reveal Answer

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Correct Choice

There is a congressional funding stalemate linked to disputes over immigration policies.

Which Senator questioned Mullin regarding his history of personal conflicts?

John Fetterman

Martin Heinrich

Rand Paul

Reveal Answer

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Correct Choice

Rand Paul

Who did Markwayne Mullin replace as the DHS Secretary?

John Fetterman

Kristi Noem

Rand Paul

Reveal Answer

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Correct Choice

Kristi Noem

What was the result of the Senate vote to invoke cloture?

It was a unanimous decision by all present Senators.

It was rejected with 54 votes against and 37 in favor.

The vote passed 54–37, allowing the confirmation process to proceed.

Reveal Answer

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Correct Choice

The vote passed 54–37, allowing the confirmation process to proceed.

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