Kristi Noem FEMA (DHS photo by Tia Dufour/Released)
President Donald Trump announced today that Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) will replace Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, effective March 31, 2026.
The announcement creates a shakeup at one of the administration's most high-profile agencies amid growing scrutiny of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
President Trump announced Noem's departure in a Truth Social post, praising both officials while signaling a change in direction.
"Markwayne will work tirelessly to Keep our Border Secure, Stop Migrant Crime, Murderers, and other Criminals from illegally entering our Country," Trump wrote, adding that Mullin would "make a spectacular Secretary of Homeland Security."
Noem will not be leaving the administration entirely. Trump announced she will transition to a newly created role as Special Envoy for The Shield of the Americas, a Western Hemisphere security initiative set to be unveiled Saturday in Doral, Florida.
Trump credited Noem with "numerous and spectacular results (especially on the Border)."
The transition comes just one day after Noem testified before the House Judiciary Committee, where she highlighted what she called historic border security achievements under the Trump administration.
This includes a reported 96 percent decline in daily southwest border encounters compared to the Biden administration.
However, the announcement also follows intensifying scrutiny of DHS, including scrutiny surrounding recent American deaths in Minnesota and questions about the department's conduct, and Democrats fighting for her to step down.
Trump praised Mullin's background, describing him as "the only Native American in the Senate" and a "former undefeated professional MMA fighter."
Trump also noted he carried all 77 Oklahoma counties in each of his three presidential campaigns.
Mullin has been a vocal Trump ally on national security issues as he recently backed Trump's military strikes against Iran.
His confirmation hearing before the Senate is expected in the coming weeks.
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