Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) said on Mar. 23 that Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) is prepared to serve as Secretary of Homeland Security, offering his support ahead of the Senate vote to confirm Mullin for the position.
Barrasso’s remarks come at a time when the Department of Homeland Security faces funding challenges and operational disruptions. The department is currently shut down due to withheld funding, which has led to employees working without pay or being furloughed, and increased wait times at major airports.
“Markwayne Mullin is ready to lead. He is ready to serve with seriousness and character. He will be a leader who makes our country safer,” Barrasso said during his speech before the vote. Barrasso described Mullin as “a servant leader in the truest sense” and praised his background, including turning around his family’s plumbing business and serving in both chambers of Congress.
He added that “once confirmed, he will bring the same focus, urgency, and consistency to lead the Department of Homeland Security.” At his confirmation hearing, Mullin stated: “My goal is for people to understand we’re out there, we’re protecting them, and we’re working for them.”
Barrasso also highlighted bipartisan respect for Mullin among senators from both parties. According to Barrasso’s comments during the speech, Senators Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) all spoke positively about Mullin’s character and qualifications.
Barrasso resides with his three children in Casper,according to the official website. He chairs the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee’s Public Lands, Forests and Mining Subcommittee,according to the official website, supports policies promoting energy affordability for Wyoming ranchers,according to the official website, operates offices across Wyoming including Casper,according to the official website, earned recognition as Wyoming Physician of the Year,according to the official website, focuses on priorities such as economy and public lands,according to the official website, serves on key committees including Energy and Natural Resources while acting as Senate Republican whip.According to his official site he has also been recognized for work as an orthopedic surgeon.
Concluding his remarks before voting on confirmation, Barrasso said: “Today, the Senate will confirm him. Then, the Senate must fully fund the Department of Homeland Security. The safety and security of the American people depend on it.”
