TULSA, Okla. — The U.S. Senate voted 54-45 to confirm Sen. Markwayne Mullin to lead the Department of Homeland Security March 23.
Pres. Trump nominated him to replace Sec. Kristi Noem.
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Sen. Markwayne Mullin nominated to DHS secretary
After a contentious committee hearing, his nomination moved to the full Senate for a final vote.
Local News
Senate committee sends Sen. Mullin nomination to full Senate
Mullin will take over on March 31. Gov. Kevin Stitt will appoint a replacement to serve in his seat until the election in November.
Sen. James Lankford released a statement in response to the vote:
“Markwayne Mullin grew up in Westville, OK, built a business from the ground up, and has spent his life stepping up when it matters most,” said Lankford. “He knows how to lead and how to get results. He’ll bring that same focus to DHS he had in his over decade of service to Oklahomans in Congress to keep Americans safe. I will be praying for now Secretary Mullin and his family as he makes this transition to lead in this new role.”
House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson released a statement following Mullin's confirmation:
“My hope for Secretary Mullin is that he does better than his predecessor and speaks to people and communities who are and have been traumatized by ICE,” said Leader Munson. “It is imperative we work to ensure human beings are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. I hope he can have real conversations with those affected and work to make necessary changes that prevent folks from living in fear.
“We also need serious consideration and solutions regarding the funding of FEMA, especially as Oklahoma faces record levels of tornadoes and significant wildfires. I anticipate he is willing to work alongside statewide officials to help find solutions that keep Oklahomans safe.
“Now, more than ever, we need a Secretary who puts Americans before the personal and political interests of the President. I know it’s a tall order, but it’s one worth demanding in these times.”
Gov. Kevin Stitt tweeted the following statement:
"Congratulations to Secretary Markwayne Mullin on his confirmation by the U.S. Senate to lead the Department of Homeland Security. As an Oklahoman, he has been a steadfast fighter for our state and a strong voice for securing our nation. I have every confidence he will bring Oklahoma common sense and a deep commitment to law and order to President Trump’s cabinet and to DHS. Oklahoma is well represented with Secretary Mullin at the Department of Homeland Security keeping our state and our country safe."
Gov. Stitt has called for a news conference the morning of March 24 at the Oklahoma Capitol building. 2 News Oklahoma will be there to report the latest on the governor's announcement.
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