Story perspectives

Homeland Security Secretary Faces Backlash Over 'Right Kind' Immigrant Remarks

4/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin sparked backlash after saying the U.S. seeks "the right kind of immigrants," critics called the remarks racist.
The remarks followed criticisms that prior immigration policies allowed criminals to enter the U.S.
A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said Mullin was referring to "legal" immigrants.
Administration policies have been criticized for disproportionately affecting people of color and halting visa processing for more than 70 countries.

1 of 1

Story summary

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin sparked backlash after saying the U.S. seeks "the right kind of immigrants," critics called the remarks racist.
The remarks followed criticisms that prior immigration policies allowed criminals to enter the U.S.
A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said Mullin was referring to "legal" immigrants.
Administration policies have been criticized for disproportionately affecting people of color and halting visa processing for more than 70 countries.