March 20, 2026Updated March 21, 2026 at 5:00 PM ET
WASHINGTON – Senator Markwayne Mullin has committed to adopting a more collaborative approach to immigration enforcement if confirmed as head of the Department of Homeland Security. He asserts, however, that the Biden administration has not rolled back the stringent policies established under Donald Trump.
Kristi Noem’s appointment to replace Mullin offers a crucial opportunity to rethink immigration policy amid increasing enforcement efforts and widespread protests ignited by the shootings of two U.S. citizens.
Mullin has pledged that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will be required to obtain judicial warrants before entering homes or businesses to detain suspects. He envisions ICE transitioning into more of a logistical operation rather than an aggressive enforcement entity. Furthermore, he expressed a desire to consult local authorities before establishing new detention facilities and indicated regret for previous comments regarding Alex Preti, whom he labeled “crazy” prior to the completion of their investigation.
Mullin’s confirmation follows the impending retirement of Greg Bovino, the Border Patrol official known for his aggressive immigration strategies, which have resulted in protests in major cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Minneapolis. Tom Homan, Trump’s border czar, has intensified enforcement efforts in Minneapolis while reducing local staff levels. Notably, Noem previously consented to allow agents to wear body cameras during their operations.
Despite emerging reports suggesting that Trump is reassessing his immigration stance, the White House remains firm in its strategy. “No one is changing the current administration’s immigration enforcement policies,” asserted Press Secretary Abigail Jackson, emphasizing that undocumented immigrants are subject to deportation and that focusing on criminal illegal aliens remains the top priority.
As the Senate prepares for a vote on Mullin’s confirmation, key aspects of his proposed immigration policies are coming to light, particularly his insistence that ICE agents must secure judicial warrants before entering residences or businesses. This marks a significant shift from his predecessor Noem’s approach.
Need for Judicial Warrants in ICE Operations
Mullin emphasized that ICE agents will not enter properties without a judicial warrant, unless they are actively pursuing a suspect. This shift comes in response to concerns raised by Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, who highlighted incidents where ICE agents entered homes without securing warrants, causing distress among families.
Regrets About Comments on Preti, Stand By Good’s Shooting
Mullin expressed regrets over his comments regarding Preti, stating that the language he used was inappropriate. He noted the need for sensitivity as investigations remain ongoing. Regarding another incident involving the shooting of Renee Good, Mullin maintained that the officer’s actions were justified, citing the individual’s vehicle as a potential weapon during the confrontation.
Restoring Trust in the Department of Homeland Security
Throughout his confirmation hearing, Mullin repeatedly voiced his intention to rebuild public confidence in the Department of Homeland Security. He hopes to minimize media scrutiny of the agency, indicating that he aspires for the DHS to focus on its core mission without becoming embroiled in controversy.
Commitment to Immigrants Seeking Legal Residency
In response to inquiries from Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey, Mullin assured that immigrants actively pursuing legal residency would not be subjected to arrests during their applications for residency documents. He acknowledged the growing fears within communities regarding immigration enforcement near sensitive locations like schools and hospitals.
Transitioning Leadership at the Border Patrol
As Mullin prepares to lead DHS amidst the impending retirement of Greg Bovino, who has faced backlash for his harsh immigration tactics that ignited nationwide protests, the administration is poised for fundamental shifts. Mullin’s vision includes fostering improved relationships with local law enforcement agencies to facilitate smoother collaboration.
Strengthening Local Cooperation in Enforcement
Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan highlighted the erosion of trust in ICE following reports of brutal tactics and unchecked operations. In response, Mullin has indicated his commitment to enhancing cooperation with local governments, suggesting a model where suspects may be apprehended from jails instead of through community engagement to alleviate public fear.
