U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune announced on Mar. 23 that the Senate will confirm Markwayne Mullin as the next secretary of homeland security, following a nomination by President Trump.
The confirmation comes at a time when the Department of Homeland Security faces significant challenges, including a recent five-week shutdown attributed to Democratic actions. The appointment is considered important for maintaining national security and leadership continuity within the department.
Thune spoke about Mullin’s background, highlighting his experience in business and public service. “As a young man, Markwayne left college to take over his family plumbing business. He grew that small enterprise into a large and successful business in the state of Oklahoma,” Thune said during remarks on the Senate floor. He also described Mullin’s hands-on approach: “Just a few weeks after being elected to the House, when the Oklahoma delegation was touring storm damage, Markwayne cut away from the other congressmen and climbed through debris to try to shut off water shooting through the wreckage.” Thune added that Mullin’s energy is well known among colleagues: “His workout class in the House gym is the stuff of legend… And that energy doesn’t come from coffee – Markwayne does it all on decaf.”
Thune emphasized Mullin’s personal values: “Markwayne’s strength comes from his wife – and childhood sweetheart – Christie and his rock-solid faith in God – both of which have made him an outstanding public servant and, most importantly, a loving father to their six children.” He concluded with praise for Mullin’s readiness for this new role: “I am proud to cast a vote for Markwayne Mullin, knowing with confidence that he is up to the work and to the task… But the Senate’s loss is the Department of Homeland Security’s gain.”
Thune has held various leadership roles such as Senate majority leader as well as Republican whip and conference chairman according to his official website. His committee assignments include Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry; Commerce, Science and Transportation; and Finance according to his official website. Thune grew up in Murdo, South Dakota where an encounter with a congressman inspired him toward public service according to his official website.
He obtained degrees from Biola University (bachelor’s) and University of South Dakota (master’s in business administration) according to his official website. Thune won historic elections including one against an incumbent party leader according to his official website. Together with his wife Kimberley he raised two daughters; they have six grandchildren while maintaining their home in Sioux Falls according to his official website.
