Test Vote for Secretary of Homeland Security

Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) passed a crucial test vote on Sunday as he aims to become the Secretary of Homeland Security. Nominated by President Donald Trump, Mullin is not expected to secure final confirmation until Monday night, with just one vote still pending.

If he is approved, Mullin will take over for Kristi Noem, the current Secretary, who was dismissed by Trump after a contentious hearing and following the deaths of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Preti related to immigration responsibilities in Minnesota.

Recently, Democrats have pushed back against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding, leading to a 36-day shutdown. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) has attempted various strategies to address this, but they have largely fallen flat.

The 54-37 test vote came after a heated confirmation hearing earlier in the week, which notably saw bipartisan support from Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Sen. John Fetterman (D-Penn.) as they navigated committee assignments.

Mullin faced significant criticism during the hearing, including from Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), who labeled him a “snake” and referenced past incidents in Mullin’s life. When asked about his previous remarks, Mullin acknowledged his faults but also expressed his commitment to learn from them. “I’m not perfect. I don’t claim to be,” he stated. “But when your mistakes are yours, you can learn from them and move on. And I make that promise to you.”

If he succeeds in the upcoming vote, Mullin will lead the DHS, which has been challenged by the ongoing shutdown. Senate Democrats have repeatedly blocked funding proposals, insisting on stricter reforms for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Dems have proposed that ICE warrants require judicial approval before entering residences or businesses. When questioned by Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) about this measure, Mullin seemed to support the idea, asserting the need for judicial warrants unless pursuing someone actively entering a location. “I’ve never mixed words about it and I haven’t changed my opinion about it,” he added.

Even as the shutdown persists—with its duration now potentially reaching historic lengths—Mullin’s nomination has remained on track, although Senate Democrats have called for Noem’s dismissal.

The federal stalemate briefly lifted earlier this week when Senate Democrats offered a counterproposal to the White House, prompting a round of discussions with key senators. However, plans for a third meeting over the weekend were abruptly canceled.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) criticized Democrats for viewing the shutdown as politically advantageous. He emphasized the negative impact on countless workers and critical government functions, particularly those tied to security.

As for whether a fresh agreement will be settled by the weekend? That remains uncertain.