Sen. Rand Paul sharply confronted fellow Republican Sen. Markwayne Mullin on March 18 during Mullin’s confirmation hearing to lead the Department of Homeland Security, accusing him of defending political violence and questioning his temperament. Paul cited past remarks in which Mullin reportedly called him a “snake” and said he understood why Paul had been assaulted by a neighbor in 2017.
Mullin pushes back as hearing turns personal
Mullin fired back, saying he meant he understood why Paul’s behavior angered people, not that the assault was justified. The exchange set a combative tone for the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hearing, where Paul argued Mullin showed “low impulse control” and lacked the judgment needed to run DHS.
Questions also focused on DHS leadership
Lawmakers also pressed Mullin on his past comments about federal law enforcement, including remarks he made after the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti. Mullin said those comments were made too quickly and acknowledged they should have been retracted, adding that he would not make the same mistake as secretary. He also said FEMA should be restructured, not eliminated.
Confirmation vote could come quickly
The hearing took place March 18 at the Senate Dirksen Building. The committee is expected to vote on Mullin’s nomination as soon as March 19, and if advanced, the full Senate could take it up next week.
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