Markwayne Mullin blasts Democrat as ‘reckless’ in DHS funding clash

WASHINGTON, DC: As Washington moves past a bruising shutdown battle involving the United States Department of Homeland Security, Secretary Markwayne Mullin sharply criticized top Democrats over fresh threats of another funding standoff later this year.

Mullin, while speaking to Fox News on Sunday, May 3 accused lawmakers of turning national security into political theater after comments suggesting another shutdown fight could be on the table this fall.

Mullin slams 'reckless and crazy' Dems

During a television interview, Mullin was asked about comments from Bennie Thompson, the top Democrat on House Homeland Security, who reportedly said Democrats were “absolutely” prepared for another shutdown battle.

Mullin didn’t hold back. “We can’t argue with crazy,” he said, before accusing Thompson of being “reckless” despite having access to briefings on threats facing the country.

Mullin argued that someone serving in a senior homeland security role should understand the stakes involved in funding fights that directly affect national security agencies.

"He's not actually doing his job. He's having more political theater because he's pandering to his base!"

He said Thompson knows “the true threats” facing the country, but instead chooses what Mullin described as political messaging aimed at energizing his base.

Mullin added that despite the political battles in Washington, homeland security personnel remain focused on their mission of protecting Americans, calling it one of the most important responsibilities in government.

A pause in DHS funding fight

Donald Trump, on April 30 signed a spending bill ending a 76-day partial government shutdown that severely disrupted airport operations and security staffing.

The legislation restores funding for the Department of Homeland Security but excludes key agencies like Immigration and Customs Enforcement and parts of Customs and Border Protection.

The standoff stemmed from deep political divisions over immigration policy, with Democrats pushing for reforms after deadly incidents involving federal agents, while Republicans insisted on full funding.

The Department of Homeland Security had been operating without full funding since mid-February, triggering major airport disruptions and long security lines nationwide.

The prolonged impasse left workers unpaid, strained airport security, and marked one of the longest shutdowns in US history.

The newly approved bill resolves the impasse, ensuring timely pay for frontline personnel.

Earlier, emergency measures were introduced to compensate TSA agents working without pay.