Senate advances Mullin nomination to lead DHS, paving way for confirmation

If approved on Monday, as expected, Mullin would replace Kristi Noem, whom Trump fired in early March
Pennsylvania Democratic senator John Fetterman joined seven Republicans on the committee to advance Mullin’s nomination to the full chamber.

On Sunday, Fetterman and his fellow Democratic senator Martin Heinrich of New Mexico joined Republicans in voting to limit debate on Mullin’s appointment.

Paul was among nine senators who were absent from the vote.

The remaining eight were Democrats: Cory Booker of New Jersey, Chris Coons of Delaware, Dick Durbin of Illinois, Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly of Arizona, Tim Kaine of Virginia, Gary Peters of Michigan and Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire.

If ultimately confirmed, Mullin, a member of the Cherokee Nation, would be the second Native American to serve as a presidential cabinet member.