A House budget hearing involving Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin descended into a heated shouting match after lawmakers clashed over his use of government aircraft.The confrontation occurred during testimony on immigration enforcement funding and broader DHS budget priorities on Capitol Hill.Democratic Rep.

James Walkinshaw pressed Mullin about his reported use of a Gulfstream G700, a luxury government jet previously purchased during the tenure of former DHS leadership, questioning whether he regularly used it for travel to Oklahoma.Walkinshaw cited flight logs suggesting near-weekly trips and challenged the necessity and cost of such aircraft.

Mullin attempted to respond while asserting he was required by statute to provide answers, but interruptions and overlapping speech quickly escalated tensions.The exchange became increasingly disorderly, with both men talking over each other as the committee chairman, Rep.Andrew Garbarino, intervened.

Garbarino repeatedly banged the gavel, suspended the timing of remarks, and warned that the hearing would be adjourned if order was not restored, emphasizing that members must not speak over one another.During the exchange, Mullin acknowledged using the Gulfstream to travel to Oklahoma but stated he does not pilot the aircraft himself.

The discussion then shifted toward broader spending concerns, with Walkinshaw urging Mullin to consider selling government-owned luxury aircraft, including additional jets and a Boeing 737 MAX 8 reportedly outfitted with high-end amenities, and redirecting funds toward housing allowances for DHS employees.Mullin rejected the proposal, defending the aircraft as necessary assets for the Coast Guard and DHS operations.

The incident highlighted broader criticism of Mullin’s travel patterns, with unnamed sources alleging he frequently works from his Oklahoma ranch during the week.

One insider suggested his approach reflects a lighter workload expectation for the department, intensifying political scrutiny over his management style and use of government resources.