DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin testifies before House panel at oversight hearing — 6/25/2026

Summary

A House Appropriations subcommittee oversight hearing with DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin and Deputy Secretary Troy Edgar. Lawmakers questioned the secretaries on border security measures, immigration enforcement, FEMA disaster declarations, detention conditions, and counter-drone efforts for the World Cup. The session was dominated by policy and funding debates, with no specific investment recommendations made.

• Secretary Mullin detailed progress on border wall construction, including smart fences and autonomous towers to combat cartel activity.
• The hearing covered the use of $261 billion in reconciliation funds for DHS, with members raising transparency concerns.
• FEMA disaster assistance denials were challenged by members from Illinois and Hawaii, with allegations of politicization.
• Conditions in immigration detention centers were debated, focusing on medical care and detainee deaths.
• The Secretary highlighted counter-UAS measures at FIFA World Cup stadiums and the need for expanded authorities.
• Plans to increase the Coast Guard's ice cutter fleet were discussed, funded partially through the secretary's discretionary funds.
• The recovery of 147,000 of the 450,000 missing unaccompanied children was a key priority for the Secretary.
• Members pressed for improved responsiveness and information sharing from the department.