U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was dismissed by President Donald Trump, ending her 13-month tenure at the agency amid ongoing ICE operations.
Noem’s mass deportation campaign sparked widespread protests, and at least three citizens were reportedly killed during these events.
President Trump announced the decision on his Truth Social account on Thursday, March 5, stating, “Noem has served us well. She will be named Special Envoy for The Shield of the Americas, our new Security Initiative in the Western Hemisphere.” The administration plans to formally unveil the new initiative on Saturday, March 7, 2026.
Attention has now shifted to her successor, Sen. Markwayne Mullin, who assumed the role on March 31, 2026.
Who is Sen. Markwayne Mullin?
Sen. Mullin, 48, is a former professional MMA fighter who has served in the Senate since 2023. Known as a staunch supporter of President Trump, he is closely aligned with the MAGA movement in Congress.
Before joining the Senate, Mullin represented his district in the House of Representatives. With a 5-0 record as a professional MMA fighter and experience as a business owner, he is often associated with the “MAGA Warrior” persona and has acted as a key liaison between the White House and congressional Republicans.
If confirmed by Congress, Mullin—who is a member of the Cherokee Nation—would be the first Native American to lead the Department of Homeland Security. According to his official biography, he is a “successful business owner, working cow-calf rancher, and proud husband of 28 years to Mrs. Christie Mullin.”
Sen. Mullin has previously expressed support for DHS policies and past administration immigration crackdowns.
