When Mullin's friends in Congress call, DHS answers

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin is gaining attention for his habit of bending over backwards to help his former colleagues in Congress, even if it puts him at odds with the White House and MAGA supporters. His actions, such as pausing ICE agents' traffic stops and delaying border security construction in Texas, have been prompted by personal pleas from friends in the Capitol.

This approach diverges from that of his predecessor, Kristi Noem, who frequently faced criticism for a lack of communication with Congress. A former DHS attorney and leader of the Mass Deportation Coalition, Mike Howell, noted that people often throw their weight around once they leave the Senate, resulting in a plethora of constituent service work through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

However, Mullin's affinity for his ex-colleagues hasn't always paid off. Following a fatal traffic stop involving an ICE agent in Maine, both senators from the state, Susan Collins (R) and Angus King (I), reached out to Mullin to request a review of the agency's arrest policy in traffic stops. Mullin initially agreed to a temporary pause in ICE vehicle stops to make arrests, but Trump overturned it a day later amid MAGA outrage.

Recently, Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) requested a meeting with Mullin over concerns regarding a border plan to build roads and security systems in Big Bend state and national parks. Ten days later, Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodney Scott announced a pause in construction in the region following a video conference with Mullin. Texas Governor Greg Abbott claimed the pause was a consequence of his conversations with the secretary.

Mullin's actions have also extended to other colleagues. Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.)'s call resulted in the release from ICE detention of Deisy Rivera Ortega, an immigrant spouse of a U.S. military member. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D), who had a history with Mullin, also played a role in thwarting a threat to cut off international air travel from sanctuary jurisdictions.

Shortly after Mullin's confirmation, he reportedly became upset when learning the agency was investigating then-Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) for allegedly hiring an undocumented nanny. DHS later denied that Mullin was upset by the investigation.

Several elected officials have praised Mullin's communication style, expressing appreciation for his responsiveness and accessibility. However, some, like former ICE and CBP Commissioner Mark Morgan, argue that his approach is more about reaching out to other politicians than adhering to the law and substance.