Politics
Jimmy Kimmel mocked over ‘plumber’ jab at DHS chief Markwayne Mullin
Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel is facing criticism after joking about newly confirmed Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin during his monologue Tuesday night, with several commentators and lawmakers accusing the comedian of belittling working-class professions.
During the broadcast, Kimmel mocked Mullin’s background and qualifications while discussing his appointment to lead the Department of Homeland Security.
“Trump’s got a whole new generation of thinkers lined up, including his newly confirmed secretary of Homeland Security, Markwayne ‘Chuck Mike Bruce Dave’ Melon — Mullin. Maybe melon’s better,” Kimmel said. “He’s the now former senator of Oklahoma. Before he was elected to the Senate, Markwayne Mullin was a low-level MMA fighter and a plumber. That’s right. We have a plumber protecting us from terrorism now. It worked for Super Mario. Why not Markwayne?”
He continued, “But honestly — I mean, if Trump is going to keep picking these unqualified people to run the department, why not have more fun with it? I mean, next time instead of Markwayne, how about Lil Wayne for Homeland Security? At least we can get a concert out of it, right?”
The remarks quickly drew backlash online, with critics arguing that the jokes came across as dismissive of blue-collar workers.
“The disdain for which the Democrats and Hollywood elites have for working class Americans – and folks who step up to do important jobs for their country – is shameful. These people need help,” Sen. Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., wrote on X.
Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, also weighed in, joking, “I prefer plumbers to woke & unfunny comedians.”
Others in media circles echoed the criticism. RealClearInvestigations senior writer Mark Hemingway wrote, “I would much rather be protected by plumbers than lawyers.”
Substack journalist Chris Cillizza also commented on the controversy, writing, “Not a great look.”
Some critics pointed to Kimmel’s own background while responding to the segment. Townhall.com writer Amy Curtis remarked, “This is your reminder that Jimmy Kimmel does not have a degree, save an honorary Doctorate from UNLV.”
Rep. Mike Collins, R-Ga., defended Mullin’s career path and business background, writing that many Americans take pride in skilled trades.
“The elites too often look down their noses at blue collar, middle America. They try to demean a man by calling him a plumber. As if plumbing is something to be ashamed of or is somehow a lesser profession than a court jester turning tricks on late night commentary (comedy is dead). But even just calling a U.S Senator and cabinet secretary a plumber doesn’t do justice to a man, who built a successful business in a highly competitive environment that provides jobs for several plumbers actually and others that then feed many families,” Collins wrote.
The debate unfolded online shortly after Mullin’s confirmation to the post. Meanwhile, Noem was removed from her position earlier this month.
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