Trump replaces Noem as DHS secretary with Oklahoma senator
Caroline MolloyPresident Donald Trump announced March 5 that he was replacing Kristi Noem as Department of Homeland Security (DHS) secretary with Republican Sen. Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma, marking the first major shake-up of his Cabinet in his second term.
“I am pleased to announce that the Highly Respected United States Senator from the Great State of Oklahoma, Markwayne Mullin, will become the United States Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS), effective March 31, 2026,” Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social.
Trump said that Noem had served in her role well and would be moving to serve as special envoy for “The Shield of the Americas,” a new security initiative in the Western Hemisphere that will be unveiled in Doral, Florida, on March 7.
Mullin, whom Trump said has done a “tremendous job” in Congress, has been in the Senate since 2023 and previously served in the House.
“As the only Native American in the Senate, Markwayne is a fantastic advocate for our incredible Tribal Communities,” Trump said on social media. “Markwayne will work tirelessly to Keep our Border Secure, Stop Migrant Crime, Murderers, and other Criminals from illegally entering our Country, End the Scourge of Illegal Drugs and, MAKE AMERICA SAFE AGAIN.”
Speaking to reporters shortly after Trump’s announcement, Mullin said he and the President are “great friends” and that he is excited to “get started right away.”
“It’s pretty humbling when you think about it,” he also said. “A little kid from Westville, Oklahoma gets to serve in the President’s cabinet? That’s pretty neat.”
