President Donald Trump on Thursday fired Kristi Noem from her job as secretary of Homeland Security amid growing criticism from both parties on Capitol Hill over her role in border security, immigration enforcement, disaster response, and counterterrorism.
President Trump has picked Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin to replace Noem in the position of secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, a move that implies a major overhaul of the agency in charge of immigration and border security in the United States.
In a post on Truth Social, President Trump said, “I am pleased to announce that Markwayne will assume the helm of the Department of Homeland Security on March 31, 2026. Kristi will assume the position of special envoy for ‘The Shield of the Americas.’ The Shield of the Americas will be formally unveiled this Saturday in Doral, Florida.”
“Markwayne will work tirelessly to keep our border secure, stop migrant crime, and end the scourge of illegal drugs,” President Trump said, adding, “Markwayne is a MAGA warrior and has the wisdom and courage required to advance our America First agenda.”
Mullin has been a member of the U.S. Senate for three years and a member of the House of Representatives for a decade, serving Oklahoma. Prior to entering politics, he was also recognized for his work as a mixed martial artist, competing professionally until he retired undefeated.
Trump pointed out that Mullin is an American of Native American descent and is the only Native American serving in the Senate.
The firing is a reorganization of leadership within one of the largest agencies in the federal government, DHS. It is an agency responsible for border security, immigration enforcement, disaster relief, and counterterrorism.
The new title of special envoy for “The Shield of the Americas” for Noem suggests a larger regional security initiative, but details of the project have not been made available.
Mullin’s appointment is subject to Senate approval before he can take up his new role.
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