Heinrich among 2 Democrats to back advancing Mullin for DHS secretary
Sen. Martin Heinrich was one of only two Democrats to vote to advance Sen. Markwayne Mullin’s nomination for DHS secretary, citing their working relationship.
New Mexico senator calls Republican colleague “a friend,” says he wants a Homeland Security leader he can work with
Damien Willis, Organ Mountain News
WASHINGTON - U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., was one of only two Senate Democrats to vote Sunday to advance the nomination of Republican Sen. Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma to serve as U.S. Department of Homeland Security secretary.
The Senate voted 54-37 to invoke cloture on Mullin’s nomination, limiting debate and moving it toward a final confirmation vote. Heinrich and Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., were the only Democrats to support advancing the nomination.
In a statement, Heinrich acknowledged the vote may surprise some observers, describing Mullin as “a friend” and pointing to their history of working together on legislation.
“We have a very honest and constructive working relationship,” Heinrich said. “We often disagree and when we do, we work to find whatever common ground we share.”
Heinrich said he wants a DHS secretary he can communicate with directly, particularly given New Mexico’s proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border and the number of federal employees in the state working for agencies under DHS, including the Transportation Security Administration, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Border Patrol.
“For five years, under this and the previous Trump Administration, I have lacked any constructive relationship with the Secretary of Homeland Security,” Heinrich said. “I would like a Secretary who I can call and have a constructive conversation with about my state and the unique terrain that exists in the southwest.”
He also pointed to Mullin’s willingness to maintain his positions under pressure, adding that he wants a DHS leader “who doesn’t take their orders from Stephen Miller.”
Despite his support for advancing Mullin’s nomination, Heinrich reiterated his ongoing criticism of the Department of Homeland Security and its enforcement practices.
He has previously called the agency “lawless” and has opposed funding increases for Immigration and Customs Enforcement without reforms. Heinrich has said he will not support additional ICE funding unless the agency commits to following the rule of law.
Heinrich also voted against the nomination of outgoing DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and was among those who called for her resignation or removal.
Mullin’s nomination now moves toward a final confirmation vote in the Senate.
Damien Willis is founder and editor of Organ Mountain News. If you have a personal story to share or a lead we should follow up on, reach out at OrganMountainNews@gmail.com or connect with him on X at @damienwillis.
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