What We’re Covering Today
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Kristi Noem Fired: President Trump announced Thursday on social media that he was firing his homeland security secretary, Kristi Noem, and wanted Senator Markwayne Mullin to replace her. In his announcement, Mr. Trump said Ms. Noem would move into a previously nonexistent security role. Read more ›
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Secretary Under Siege: The fate of Ms. Noem had been the focus of speculation among Mr. Trump’s allies for several weeks. She faced intense questioning this week from congressional Republicans, including about a lucrative advertising contract. Mr. Trump on Thursday contradicted her testimony that he had signed off on the $220 million ad campaign.
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Markwayne Mullin: Mr. Mullin, an Oklahoma Republican, is close with Mr. Trump. It was unclear how quickly the Senate would be able to move to confirm him, given the protracted standoff in Congress over funding the department. Democrats have demanded restrictions on immigration enforcement as part of any funding deal.