Senate Clears Procedural Path for Mullin to Lead DHS

The Senate advanced Sen. Markwayne Mullin’s nomination to lead the Department of Homeland Security in a 54–37 weekend procedural vote, with two Democrats joining Republicans; a final confirmation is expected soon. Mullin, an Oklahoma Republican, has drawn praise from many Republicans and some Democrats, despite earlier questions from Rand Paul during his hearing about his past remarks and views on violence. He would succeed Kristi Noem amid scrutiny of immigration enforcement and DHS advertising, and has framed his leadership as empowering people. The vote comes as DHS remains in a funding and immigration reform stalemate that has disrupted airports, with talk of ICE assistance to TSA if needed.