Trump fires Noem as frustrations build among White House officials, GOP lawmakers
Trump Names Mullin to Replace Noem as Homeland Security Secretary
President Donald Trump announced Thursday that he would replace Kristi Noem as head of the Department of Homeland Security, selecting Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin for the role. The decision, shared via his social media platform Truth Social, came as tensions within the administration and among Republican lawmakers reached a peak. Trump praised Noem’s tenure, highlighting her “numerous and spectacular results,” particularly her work on border security, before citing her new position as Special Envoy for The Shield of the Americas initiative.
Mullin is set to assume the role on March 31, with White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stating the administration would expedite his confirmation process. Sources noted Trump’s admiration for Mullin’s television appearances, which influenced his choice. The senator has been featured in media segments aligned with major administration milestones, according to aides. Trump’s frustration with Noem’s handling of recent events, including congressional hearings, was a key factor in the reshuffle.
Noem’s Firing and Immediate Response
Noem learned of her dismissal while arriving at an event in Nashville, Tennessee, as confirmed by three sources. Two of these sources indicated Trump personally called her to deliver the news. In a social media post, Noem expressed gratitude for her service, stating, “The western hemisphere is absolutely critical for U.S. security.” She emphasized her commitment to continuing the work begun during her time as DHS secretary.
“In this new role, I will be able to build on the partnerships and national security expertise I forged over the last 13 months as Secretary of Homeland Security.”
White House officials and GOP allies had been critical of Noem’s leadership, citing several missteps. These included pausing TSA precheck without prior consultation, a move reversed hours later, and her responses during recent congressional hearings. Trump himself was dissatisfied with how the hearings unfolded, especially her claim that he knew about the DHS ad campaign—a point he denies.
Internal and External Criticism
Scandal over Noem’s alleged romantic relationship with her chief adviser, along with allegations of improper spending, had intensified scrutiny. Her agency’s ad campaign, which prominently featured her, became a focal point during hearings. Republican Senator Thom Tillis called her performance a “disaster,” while John Kennedy questioned her transparency in awarding contracts. One ad vendor was established just 11 days before the contract was signed, according to Kennedy’s findings.
ProPublica revealed last year that the recipient of a high-value advertising subcontract was the spouse of a former DHS spokesperson. While Noem defended the process, citing proper bids, critics argued the selection lacked accountability. Trump’s decision to send border czar Tom Homan to Minneapolis after the fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti signaled a loss of confidence in Noem’s handling of the crisis.
Current and former officials noted a long-standing feud between Noem and Homan, who rarely spoke despite the White House claiming they were in agreement. The controversy also weakened support among GOP senators, as seen in questions raised during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. Trump’s allies, including Lewandowski, have faced criticism for their roles in the administration, with some officials growing weary of their influence.
