Mullin's DHS throws out Noem's controversial contract policy

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin revoked on Wednesday a policy enacted by former Secretary Kristi Noem, which required her personal sign-off on large government contracts. The development comes after Mullin pledged to rescind the policy during his Senate confirmation hearing earlier this month, calling it "micromanaging" and "unrealistic." With his latest action, the secretary will no longer personally review and approve contracts over $100,000, as Noem had done. Critics said Noem's policy drastically slowed the flow of federal disaster aid, stalled construction of President Donald Trump's border wall, and led to over 1,000 contracts awaiting the former homeland security secretary's approval. "This will streamline the contract process and empower components to carry out their mission to protect the homeland and make America safe again," DHS said in a statement. "[Mullin] re-evaluated the contract processes to make sure DHS is serving the American taxpayer efficiently." Mullin previously questioned the policy during an appearance before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee as part of his confirmation process. "That's called micromanaging," Mullin said in response to a line of questioning by Sen. Andy Kim (D-NJ). "And I don't know if the Secretary put that in or someone else did. I'm not a micromanager." Mullin's criticism came after Noem generated controversy for approving a $220 million advertising campaign to firms tied to her and one of her top aides, Corey Lewandowski, with whom she is rumored to be romantically involved. Trump decided to fire Noem amid the debacle and other controversies related to her handling of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.