Trump Ousts DHS Secretary Noem, Taps Sen. Mullin for Top Job

President Trump Announces Homeland Security Shake-up Via Truth Social

In a stunning development announced via his Truth Social platform, President Trump has fired Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, citing growing frustrations with her performance and a contentious exchange before Congress. The President revealed his intention to nominate Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin as the next Secretary of Homeland Security, effective March 31, 2026.

Frustration Mounts Over Ad Campaign and Spending

Sources indicate that Secretary Noem’s testimony before Congress in recent days served as the tipping point. During questioning by Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana, Noem stated that President Trump was aware of her decision to approve a $220 million ad campaign aimed at encouraging immigrants to self-deport. This assertion reportedly did not sit well with the President, who has a differing recollection of the authorization process.

Chief White House Correspondent Peter Alexander noted that while the news is stunning, it may not be entirely surprising, given the President’s increasing frustration with Noem’s handling of various Department of Homeland Security (DHS) operations. This includes previous concerns regarding immigration enforcement in Minnesota.

Luxury Jet Purchase Fuels Controversy

Adding to the scrutiny, Secretary Noem faced sharp questioning regarding the DHS’s proposed purchase of a $70 million private jet. Exclusive images obtained by NBC News revealed a plane equipped with a bedroom, bar, kitchen, lounge, and four flat-screen TVs. Senators pressed Noem on why such a luxurious aircraft was being considered, particularly for the transportation of deportees, and why a standard plane wasn’t procured if the intent was simply transportation.

Senior Homeland Security Correspondent Julia Ainsley reported that Noem suggested the plane could be retrofitted, but the rationale behind acquiring such a high-end vessel for deportations remained a point of contention, raising questions about spending decisions within the department.

Mixed Record and Shifting Power Dynamics

Despite the controversies, it was noted that under Noem’s tenure, there was a record low number of border crossings at the southern border. This success has been attributed, in part, to the administration’s policy effectively banning asylum for those crossing the border.

However, Noem’s influence within the administration had reportedly begun to wane earlier in the year following the fatal shootings of two individuals in Minneapolis, allegedly at the hands of DHS agents. The subsequent decision to pull back a surge led by Border Patrol Commander Greg Bovino, who reported directly to Noem, was seen as an early signal of faltering power.

Congressional Reaction and Mullin’s Prospects

Senior Capitol Hill Correspondent Ryan Nobles highlighted that public hearings, often televised, are closely watched by the President. Noem’s performance in recent hearings, where she faced criticism from both Democrats and Republicans, appears to have significantly damaged her standing.

Senator Kennedy confirmed that the President contacted him after the exchange regarding the ad campaign, stating that his recollection of the authorization differed from Noem’s testimony. This divergence in accounts appears to have been a critical factor in the decision to remove her from her post.

Regarding Senator Markwayne Mullin, Nobles suggested that his nomination is likely to face a smoother confirmation process. Mullin is reportedly well-regarded by his Senate colleagues, and selecting a popular senator with strong bipartisan ties was likely a strategic calculation by the President to ensure a swift confirmation, especially given the Senate’s Republican majority.

Looking Ahead: Confirmation Process and Transition

While President Trump indicated an effective date of March 31, 2026, for Senator Mullin’s tenure, the confirmation process is not immediate. The Senate will need to hold hearings and vote on the nomination. The coming weeks will reveal the details of the transition, including who will serve as acting Secretary until Mullin is confirmed and how the Department of Homeland Security will navigate this leadership change.

Source: Special Report: Trump fires Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem (YouTube)