A group advocating for victims of crimes linked to illegal immigration is urging Congressional members to support Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) for the position of Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. Over 300 families affected by what they describe as lax border policies have rallied behind this cause.
American Border Stories (TABS), an organization focused on amplifying the voices of those who have lost family members due to crimes by undocumented individuals, sent a letter to key Senate leaders, John Thune and Chuck Schumer, right before a crucial vote on Mullin’s confirmation.
In their letter, TABS expressed that for these families, border security is not just a political issue. They believe Mullin has a solid grasp of their needs, highlighting his consistent focus on border safety and public security during his time in Congress. They appreciate his willingness to listen to those directly affected and address their concerns in policy matters, asserting that he would bring effective leadership and a strong commitment to safeguarding American communities at DHS.
Additionally, the organization noted Mullin’s experience and active engagement in border issues, emphasizing that the families are “not politically focused” but rather intent on preventing further tragedies.
Mullin recently passed a significant test vote mostly along party lines, moving closer to his confirmation as Secretary of Homeland Security. Interestingly, Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) was the sole Democrat to vote in favor of Mullin’s confirmation.
If confirmed, Mullin will take over at a time when the Department of Homeland Security faces scrutiny regarding its funding and operational reforms, particularly concerning Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Mullin has indicated plans to impose limitations on ICE, such as requiring judicial warrants for entering private properties.
He stated, “If you are breaking into a residential or business location, a judicial warrant will be used unless you are pursuing the person entering the location,” reiterating his steadfast stance on the matter.
