Senate advances Mullin nomination, final vote set for Monday evening
The Senate moved Markwayne Mullinâs nomination to lead the Department of Homeland Security forward, advancing it 54â37 after ending debate and setting a final confirmation vote for Monday evening. The outcome hinges on a narrow group of voting patterns, with two Democrats supporting Mullin while a Republican from Kentucky has opposed him. If confirmed, Mullin would assume DHS leadership by March 31, amid a broader reshuffle following Kristi Noemâs departure to a new role as special envoy for the Shield of the Americas. The development signals a maintained push to staff key national-security positions, with a scheduled final decision looming and the potential for a period of transition at DHS. Noemâs move was announced by President Trump in a March update, marking a notable shift in the administrationâs staffing landscape.
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The Senate voted 54â37 to end debate on Mullinâs nomination, paving the way for a final confirmation vote later the same day.
Democrats John Fetterman and Martin Heinrich were the only party members voting to advance Mullin, while Senator Rand Paul has consistently opposed him.
If confirmed, Mullin would assume the role of DHS secretary on March 31, replacing Kristi Noem, who left the post earlier in March.
Noemâs departure was tied to President Trumpâs announcement that she would become special envoy for the Shield of the Americas, announced via Truth Social.
The confirmation process is taking place in a high-stakes political context, with the Senate scheduling a final vote around 7:45 PM ET.
The transition is part of a broader reshuffle in national-security leadership, underscoring ongoing management changes within key federal agencies.