New Homeland Security Secretary Sworn Into Office

The President of the United States, Donald Trump, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) welcomed the confirmation and swearing-in of Secretary Markwayne Mullin as the new head of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on March 24. The ceremony took place at the White House, where Attorney General Pam Bondi administered the oath. Mullin was joined by his wife Christie and their six children.

“I don’t care what color your state is. I don’t care if you’re red or you’re blue,” Mullin said. “At the end of the day, my job is to be Secretary of Homeland Security and to protect everybody.”

For Western North Carolina, Mullin’s leadership comes at a critical time. Local communities are still recovering from Hurricane Helene, and FEMA funding delays have frustrated families and local officials. Leaders hope Mullin’s hands-on approach will help speed the distribution of federal disaster relief.

TSA officials also say Mullin’s appointment will help the agency prepare for a busy travel year, including the FIFA World Cup 2026 and major national celebrations. Travelers can expect continued improvements in security efficiency, REAL ID compliance, and new traveler-focused initiatives like TSA PreCheck promotions and streamlined checkpoint procedures.