After a lengthy and sometimes testy confirmation hearing on Wednesday, the Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee voted 8-7 Thursday morning to advance the nomination of Sen. Markwayne Mullin as the new Secretary of Homeland Security.
Democrat Sen. Gary Peters of Michigan started off by giving a short speech, declaring that Mullin was unfit to serve in the role, claiming he has “anger issues”.
Republican Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, who heavily pushed his personal vendetta against Mullin during the hearing on Wednesday, voted “NO” on Thursday.
However, Democrat Sen. John Fetterman (Pa.) crossed the aisle and voted in favor of Mullin’s nomination.
In a statement posted on X Thursday morning, Fetterman wrote, “In January, I called on the president to fire Noem—and he did. I truly approached the confirmation of my colleague and friend, Senator Mullin, with an open-mind. 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.”
In January, I called on the president to fire Noem—and he did.
I truly approached the confirmation of my colleague and friend, Senator Mullin, with an open-mind.
We need a leader at DHS.
We must reopen DHS.
My AYE is rooted in a strong committed, constructive working… https://t.co/uEZXoRhcdo
— U.S. Senator John Fetterman (@SenFettermanPA) March 19, 2026
The full Senate is now expected to hold the final vote next week on whether to approve Mullin’s nomination.
WATCH BELOW:
NEW: Senate panel advances nomination of OK Sen. Markwayne Mullin for DHS secretary. Vote was 8-7. KY GOP Sen. Rand Paul, who chairs Senate Homeland Security Committee, voted against Mullin. Democratic PA Sen. John Fetterman voted yes. Senate floor vote expected next week.
— Mitchell Miller (@mmillerwtop) March 19, 2026
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