NEW: Fetterman Breaks With Democrats, Signals Support For Trump Nominee

Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) has indicated that he will vote in favor of confirming Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) as the next secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. The vote could prove decisive considering the fact that at least one Republican senator has already confirmed that he will be voting against.

“As a member of the Homeland Security Committee + Ranking Member of Subcommittee on Border Security: I’m not sure how many fellow Democrats will vote to support our colleague [Senator Mullin] as the next DHS Secretary,” Fetterman posted on X. “But I am AYE.”

The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee conducted Mullin’s confirmation hearing on Wednesday. The session lasted approximately three hours and addressed border security, immigration enforcement, Federal Emergency Management Agency operations, departmental funding issues related to the ongoing shutdown and departmental priorities.

Committee Chairman Rand Paul (R-KY) raised objections centered on prior statements Mullin had made about a 2017 assault on Paul by a neighbor, an incident that left Paul with six broken ribs and a damaged lung. Paul referenced Mullin’s description of him as a “freaking snake” and comments indicating an understanding of the circumstances of the assault.

“You told the media that I was a ‘freaking snake’ and that you completely understood why I had been assaulted. I was shocked it would justify and celebrate this violent assault that caused me so much pain and my family so much pain,” he said.

The senator then claimed that Mullin’s comments raised concerns about his suitability for the role and indicated that he will be opposing his nomination. “I just wonder if someone who applauds violence against their political opponents is the right person to lead an agency that has struggled to accept limits to the proper use of force,” Paul said.

Mullin responded during the exchange by stating that he does not believe in political violence and offered to move past the personal disagreement. He said he would “earn your respect” and admitted when errors occur.

During the same hearing, Fetterman addressed the committee and the nominee directly. “When I was in the hospital and things were touch and go, you know, there were unkind things said about me, but I can just say that it’s better to just let it all go and to find a way forward.” Fetterman told Mullin in reference to his 2022 stroke.

“My experience with you has been consistent kindness and professionalism,” he added.

The committee, composed of eight Republicans and seven Democrats, is scheduled to vote on the nomination on Thursday. Fetterman’s position as a committee member is expected to contribute to advancement of the nomination from the panel.

The full Senate, where Republicans hold the majority, is anticipated to take up the matter shortly thereafter, potentially by the end of next week.

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