Published：Mar 3, 21:20Last updated：Mar 17, 03:54

Noem Faces Legal Scrutiny and Backlog as Mullin Nominated for Homeland Security Amid Political Turmoil

Mar. 3, 2026 21:20

Thom Tillis criticized Kristi Noem’s leadership at the Department of Homeland Security, comparing her to a negative leadership lesson. The article recaps her testimony before Congress amid ongoing debates about her priorities and response to immigration issues.

Summarized

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Mar. 15, 2026 17:25

Senator Markwayne Mullin, a Republican from Oklahoma and President Trump's Homeland Security nominee, is noted for being one of the most prolific investors in the U.S. Senate. The article highlights his increased wealth through stock trading during his time in Congress. Specific details about his investments or the impact of his trading are not provided.

Mar. 17, 2026 03:54

Kristi Noem, former Homeland Security Secretary, is accused by Democratic lawmakers of misleading Congress and making false statements to undermine oversight. She has been referred to the Justice Department for perjury investigations after allegedly evading requests to testify about DHS spending. Noem is set to leave her position at the end of the month.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is embroiled in escalating controversy as outgoing Secretary Kristi Noem faces mounting legal scrutiny, a backlog of unsigned contracts, and accusations of misleading Congress. President Donald Trump has nominated Senator Markwayne Mullin to replace Noem, intensifying debate over U.S. immigration policy, government transparency, and the administration’s internal dynamics during a period marked by a government shutdown and global security challenges.
CBC News+9

🏛️ Noem’s Tenure: Investigations and Contract Backlog

Noem’s time at DHS has been fraught with controversy, including a $220 million advertising campaign now under investigation by the department’s internal watchdog. The probe centers on no-bid contracts awarded to associates and allegations that Noem’s office obstructed investigators and refused cooperation. Additionally, Noem leaves behind a backlog of unsigned contracts—some related to immigration detention and FEMA disaster relief—with vendors awaiting payments since before the government shutdown, potentially causing operational delays for her successor.
The Independent+2

⚖️ Legal and Political Fallout: Perjury Referral and Lewandowski’s Claims

Democratic lawmakers have referred Noem to the Justice Department for possible perjury, accusing her of misleading Congress and evading testimony requests about DHS spending. Meanwhile, her aide Corey Lewandowski reportedly told colleagues he felt protected from misconduct by the expectation of a Trump pardon, raising further ethical concerns. These developments amplify the political and legal turmoil surrounding Noem’s departure and the broader scrutiny of DHS operations.
The Independent+2

🔄 Mullin’s Nomination and Financial Profile

Markwayne Mullin, Trump’s nominee for DHS Secretary, is under Senate review. Known for his loyalty to Trump and Native American heritage, Mullin is also one of the Senate’s most prolific investors, having increased his wealth through stock trading during his congressional tenure. His confirmation is seen as pivotal for advancing Trump’s hardline immigration agenda and restoring stability to DHS after a period of upheaval.
The New York Times+2

🌎 Global and Domestic Context: Summit and Shutdown

The leadership transition coincides with the "Shield of the Americas" summit, where Trump sought to build a regional coalition against organized crime and Chinese influence. Domestically, the ongoing government shutdown and internal White House discord—driven by hardliners like Stephen Miller—underscore the high stakes and volatility as DHS faces operational and reputational challenges.
The Guardian+2

Kristi NoemDonald TrumpEmily HardingMarkwayne MullinWashington, D.C.