Overview
- The hearing began with Chairman Rand Paul accusing Markwayne Mullin of excusing violence and questioning his fitness to lead DHS, citing Mullin’s past remarks and confrontational episodes.
- Mullin declined to apologize for saying he “understood” the 2017 attack on Paul, insisting he does not support political violence and pledging to earn senators’ trust.
- Pressed on Minneapolis enforcement fallout, Mullin retracted his description of Alex Pretti as “deranged,” saying he should not have made that statement and that it would not happen as secretary.
- Lawmakers scrutinized plans for immigration enforcement and FEMA, with Democrats urging requirements for visible identification, a ban on masks for agents, and limits on actions near hospitals and schools.
- DHS remains under a funding lapse causing airport delays and unpaid staff, and the committee is expected to vote as soon as Thursday, with Democrat John Fetterman signaling he will back Mullin.