Six months into the role, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has “struggled to overcome doubts” among both MAGA influencers and the White House, The New York Times reported Sunday, particularly with his efforts to “prove his toughness.”
Mullin replaced Kristi Noem as Homeland Security secretary in March, and in the months since, has repeatedly touted his efforts to ramp up deportations of undocumented migrants.
“Next stop Ecuador,” Mullin bragged in a recent social media post attached to a photo of migrants bound by ankle shackles.
But for many prominent MAGA and conservative figures, Mullin’s supposed attempt to depict himself as a MAGA hardliner fell flat.
MAGA influencer Laura Loomer urged President Donald Trump to fire Mullin for having “done absolutely nothing to increase the rate of mass deportations.” Fox News’ Tomi Lahren called Mullin out on air for refusing at least 18 invitations to appear on the network.
“Despite toughening his language on immigration — and he has increased arrests and detentions — many influential conservatives still see him as too soft on the issue,” the Times’ report reads. “And the White House has broken with him on several significant issues, further undermining his standing.”
Regarding Mullin’s breaks with the White House, Mullin has advocated for his senior adviser Lance Schroyer to be appointed as the director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Schroyer’s nomination for ICE director was abruptly pulled by the White House last week without explanation, and Mullin’s support for Schroyer has reportedly created “tension” between Mullin and Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan.
“Tom Homan, Mr. Trump’s border czar, had been frustrated with Mr. Mullin’s attempts to advocate for Mr. Schroyer’s nomination, according to two people familiar with the matter speaking on the condition of anonymity,” the Times’ report reads. “Mr. Homan did not think Mr. Schroyer, who had no ICE experience, was qualified to lead the agency, the people said.”