Trump's DHS Nominee Faces Heat Over Past Statements on Violence

President Trump's pick to lead the Department of Homeland Security faced sharp questioning from senators Wednesday, including members of his own party, over a history of comments endorsing violence.

Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin, nominated to head DHS, was pressed hardest by Kentucky Senator Rand Paul, who confronted Mullin over reports that he said he "completely understands" why a neighbor physically attacked Paul in 2017. Mullin did not back down from the remarks.

Mullin also stood by his previous statement calling the death of Renee Good at the hands of DHS agents justified. When Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal pushed him on whether he regretted that position, Mullin said only that "the investigation is going on," declining to walk anything back. Good was shot and killed by a DHS agent, and her death has drawn scrutiny from civil liberties advocates.

On policy, Mullin pushed for fully funding the Department of Homeland Security, though specific budget priorities were not detailed in the hearing.

If confirmed, Mullin would replace Kristi Noem, whom Trump fired earlier this month after a turbulent run at the agency. Republicans hold 53 Senate seats, and Mullin needs 50 votes to be confirmed. Early expectations point toward confirmation, as Republican senators have largely fallen in line behind Trump's cabinet picks.