Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla. speaks during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, Jan. 14, 2025, on Capitol Hill in Washington. (AP Photo) US President Donald Trump has nominated Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin as the next head of the US Department of Homeland Security, replacing the agency’s head, Kristi Noem, the BBC reported.
Mullin, a Republican senator and former mixed martial arts fighter, has supported Trump’s policies since he entered national politics. His appointment must still be confirmed by the United States Senate.
Speaking to reporters outside the US Capitol, Mullin said his focus would be on national security.
“Yes, I’m a Republican, yes, I’m a conservative,” he said. “Once I make that transition, my goal will be to keep the homeland safe… and we are excited about this opportunity,” according to the BBC.
Who is Markwayne Mullin?
Mullin was sworn in as a United States Senator in 2023. Before entering the Senate, he spent several years in business and politics. Over two decades, he and his wife built their family plumbing business while raising six children.
Story continues below this ad.
He has also supported the administration’s immigration policies and defended the work of immigration officials.
After immigration agents shot and killed a U.S. citizen in Minnesota, Mullin said the agents were doing a difficult job.
“Obstructing federal law enforcement is a serious crime. Most Americans follow ICE instructions without a second thought,” Mullin wrote on social media.
Obstructing the enforcement of federal law is a serious crime. Most Americans follow ICE instructions without a second thought.
These patriots are doing a difficult job in the face of an 8,000% increase in death threats.
– Markwayne Mullin (@SenMullin) January 24, 2026
Heated exchange in the Senate
Mullin drew attention in 2023 during a Senate hearing featuring Sean O’Brien, head of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters.
During the hearing, Mullin referred to a social media post in which O’Brien had criticized him.
Story continues below this ad.
“If you want to talk, we can be two consenting adults, we can end it here,” Mullin said, according to the BBC, as he stood up and appeared ready to confront the union leader before another senator intervened.
The exchange followed previous discussions between the two on social media.
