DHS ditches Noem’s immigrant detention plans as Mullin eyes less ‘flashy’ direction

Published May 15, 2026 12:40pm ET



Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has taken immigration detention in a different direction than the “flashy,” gimmicky style that his predecessor, Kristi Noem, had sought to carry out the Trump administration’s mass deportations, according to three sources aware of department plans.

Mullin has spent nearly two months in his new role plotting a course that will make the jailing of illegal immigrants through court proceedings more efficient and cost-effective, without the pomp and circumstance seen over the past year.

Already a print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.