Markwayne Mullin updates DHS rules, pauses migrant flights as Republicans call for stronger action

Markwayne Mullin has begun implementing policy changes at the Department of Homeland Security, days after taking office, but some Republican lawmakers say more action is needed.

According to CNN, Mullin has already followed through on several promises made during his confirmation hearing.

These include scrapping a rule introduced under former secretary Kristi Noem that required approval for contracts over $100,000.

The new policy raises that threshold to $25 million, with smaller contracts now handled by individual departments.

A DHS spokesperson said Mullin “re-evaluated the contract processes to make sure DHS is serving the American taxpayer efficiently,” and rescinded Noem’s previous memo “to streamline the contract process and empower components to carry out their mission to protect the homeland and make America safe again.”

Mullin is also pausing plans to use DHS aircraft to transport migrants to other countries, as part of a wider review of policies introduced under Noem.

Republican Congressman Mark Amodei told CNN the move is aimed at assessing cost effectiveness.

“We want to see that analysis, that cost benefit analysis,” Amodei said.

“Just show us how those numbers work out. The previous leadership at Homeland was missing in action on that explanation, or even a response.”

Despite early changes, some Republicans backing Donald Trump’s immigration agenda are urging Mullin to go further.