WHAT HAPPENED: The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee voted 8-7 yesterday to advance the nomination of Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) to be Homeland Security secretary, setting up a potential confirmation vote on the floor as early as next week. Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) bucked the party line to vote against Mullin’s nomination, but Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) crossed party lines to support Mullin.
WHY IT MATTERS: The secretary leads the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which is responsible for guarding the nation against terrorism, cyberattacks, and other threats — both foreign and domestic. DHS oversees Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The secretary sets enforcement priorities and policy direction for the entire immigration system.
WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING: “I truly approached the confirmation of my colleague and friend, Senator Mullin, with an open mind,” Sen. Fetterman said. “We need a leader at DHS. We must reopen DHS. My AYE is rooted in a strong committed, constructive working relationship with Senator Mullin for our nation’s security.”
WHAT’s NEXT? A confirmation vote from the full Senate could come as early as next week. Mullin’s nomination is likely to win confirmation, where Republicans hold a 53-47 majority.
Sen. Mullin at the confirmation hearing. Source: Politico
