DHS Secretary Mullin Defends Immigration Reform Stance Amid Criticism

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin told a weekend audience that while immigration reform may not be feasible, the United States still needs reform and must operate within the existing framework. He said, "Is immigration reform possible? No. Do you really need immigration reform? Yes, you do, but can we work with the system we have? Yes."

The comments have prompted criticism from several figures aligned with President Donald Trump, who argue that Mullin is insufficiently tough on immigration. The White House defended the secretary, with Deputy Press Secretary Abigail Jackson stating that the president trusts Mullin and his team to implement the agenda voted for by the American people. A DHS spokesperson also highlighted that deportations, voluntary departures and arrests have reached record levels under Mullin's tenure.

Earlier reports indicated that Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Mullin had cooperated discreetly on a plan to convert two warehouses into immigration detention facilities, a proposal that was later abandoned. Mullin described his relationship with the governor as "real good."

Mullin, a former Oklahoma senator, succeeded Kristi Noem as DHS secretary after her dismissal in March. During his Senate confirmation, he pledged to improve the agency's public image and reduce its presence in daily headlines, emphasizing protection and cooperation with the public. Since taking office, ICE arrests have continued to rise, and the department has faced scrutiny over vehicle stops and fatal incidents involving ICE agents.