President Donald Trump announced that Kristi Noem will leave the Department of Homeland Security later this month and that Oklahoma Sen. Markwayne Mullin will replace her as Secretary of Homeland Security, effective March 31, 2026.
Transition and new role
Trump said Noem would transition into a new role as Special Envoy for “The Shield of the Americas,” a regional security initiative the administration plans to unveil Saturday in Doral.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump praised Mullin and announced the change with an emphasis on strengthening border and national security efforts.
Trump also thanked Noem for her service and credited her with numerous and spectacular results, especially on the border.
Reasons and context
The announcement is the first major personnel shakeup of Trump’s second term and underscores the administration’s focus on border policy and national security priorities.
If confirmed, Mullin would oversee border enforcement, immigration policy, cybersecurity efforts and disaster response across the United States.
The change followed a turbulent week for Noem on Capitol Hill, where she faced intense questioning during congressional hearings about her leadership at DHS.
According to multiple GOP sources, Trump privately contacted Republican lawmakers earlier in the week to assess whether replacing Noem would be politically viable after the hearings drew widespread attention.
Sen. John Kennedy pressed Noem over a controversial $220 million taxpayer-funded advertising campaign promoting immigration enforcement efforts.
Reports revealed the contract was awarded to an LLC that later subcontracted work to a firm run by the husband of former DHS spokesman Tricia McLaughlin, who has since resigned.
Sen. Thom Tillis sharply criticized Noem, accusing her of mismanaging the department and demanding accountability for several controversial enforcement actions.
During the hearing Tillis declared, “What we’ve seen is a disaster! Under your leadership, Ms. Noem — a disaster!”
Who is Markwayne Mullin
Mullin, a former House member and undefeated professional MMA fighter, will step into one of the administration’s most high-profile national security roles.
Trump described the Oklahoma senator as a “MAGA Warrior” who understands the wisdom and courage required to advance the America First agenda.
Trump noted that Mullin is the only Native American in the Senate and called him a strong advocate for Tribal Communities.
The president said Mullin will focus on securing the border, combating migrant crime and drug trafficking, and strengthening the administration’s immigration enforcement strategy.
Mullin is expected to assume the role at the end of the month pending final administrative steps.
