Additional Coverage:
- Mullin threatened to kick staffer out of moving vehicle in alarming resurfaced video (themirror.com)
A resurfaced video of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has sparked a wave of criticism on social media platform X.
The Republican senator, who took over as DHS chief following the dismissal of Kristi Noem, is now facing backlash over a 2016 clip that has recently gained attention. In the footage, Mullin addresses an audience with a joke about firing an employee who expressed feeling tired.
Referring to the employee named Eddie, Mullin said, “Eddie just looked tired, just worn out.” He continued, “I was like, ‘hey, you okay?’” to which the employee replied, “I’m just tired.”
Mullin then remarked that when an important team member mentions being tired, it could be a warning sign they might quit. He added, “I got the worst feeling, I was like ‘oh no, I can’t lose Eddie.’ You try to quit me, I’m going to kick you out of the truck doing 85,” prompting laughter from the audience.
Social media users quickly seized on the clip, with many criticizing Mullin’s attitude. Comments included, “He’s got the attitude of a kid that peaked in school.
If it wasn’t for his father he’d be working at Lowe’s,” and “This dude is a complete joke. Everything he’s ever said or done is just pathetic.”
Another user sarcastically noted, “What a nice guy! I’d really want to work for him.
NOT!”
This episode adds to a series of controversies surrounding Mullin. Earlier this year, photos emerged showing the senator hiding behind chairs during the January 6 Capitol attack, which drew ridicule from some online.
Additionally, just days before his DHS appointment, Mullin faced criticism for comments on war he made during a Fox News interview. Despite lacking military service, Mullin described war in vivid terms, saying, “War is ugly.
It smells bad… If anybody has ever been there… it’s something that you’ll never forget.”
He also referenced former Fox News host Pete Hegseth, highlighting his relationship with former President Trump and military experience.
As Mullin navigates his role at DHS, public scrutiny over both past statements and current leadership decisions appears likely to continue.