The Senate has confirmed Markwayne Mullin as the new Secretary of Homeland Security, elevating a Trump ally with a history of opposing LGBTQ+ rights. The late Monday vote passed 54 to 45, with two Democrats crossing party lines in support, while one Republican voted no. Mullin now takes charge of a powerful agency overseeing immigration enforcement, airport security, and disaster response, following the firing of Kristi Noem. An Oklahoma Republican, he has consistently backed policies restricting queer rights.
He voted against the Respect for Marriage Act and supported measures targeting transgender Americans, including bans on trans athletes and defining sex at birth in federal law. His confirmation also revives concerns about his conduct. During a 2023 Senate hearing, Mullin challenged a witness to a physical fight, telling him to “stand your butt up,” before being stopped by colleagues.
Before entering politics, Mullin worked as a plumber and briefly as an MMA fighter. He was also present during the January 6, 2021, insurrection, helping barricade doors as rioters attempted to breach the House chamber. LGBTQ+ advocates warn his leadership could impact civil rights protections nationwide.
