Markwayne Mullin was born on July 26, 1977, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and is an enrolled member of the Cherokee Nation. He graduated from Stillwell High School in Stillwell, Oklahoma, and pursued higher education at Missouri Valley College in Marshall, Missouri. He earned an Associate of Applied Science degree from Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology in Okmulgee in 2010. Mullin is a business owner and has worked as a plumber and rancher. After serving in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2013 to 2023, he was elected to the United States Senate in a special election on November 8, 2022.

Mullin's political career has been characterized by his association with several key committees that reflect his areas of interest and influence, including the Senate Appropriations Committee and the Indian Affairs Committee. His role on these committees positions him to impact a diverse range of issues, from federal funding allocations to policies affecting Native American communities.

In the legislative arena, Mullin has sponsored and co-sponsored several bills that highlight his policy priorities. Notably, he introduced the Strategic Production Response Act (SB31) which addresses the drawdown of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve by limiting it until the Department of Interior updates production plans for oil and gas on federal land, with exceptions for severe energy interruptions. This bill reflects his support for energy independence and development on federal lands. Additionally, Mullin co-sponsored the SAVE Moms and Babies Act (SB95), indicating a commitment to maternal and infant health issues.

Moreover, he has further demonstrated engagement with Native American issues through resolutions such as SR156 which commemorates the fiftieth anniversary of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, emphasizing the importance of tribal sovereignty and self-governance. His work in this area underlines his dedication to enhancing the welfare of Native American tribes and fostering government-to-government relationships.

Mullin's legislative agenda showcases a generally conservative approach, particularly in matters concerning energy policy and health care for minors. He sponsored the Protecting Minors from Medical Malpractice Act (SB209) that seeks to hold medical practitioners liable for gender-transition procedures performed on those under 18, illustrating a stance against certain healthcare practices and reflecting broader national debates on healthcare access for minors. This bill, along with the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act (SB996), which aims to protect the availability of internal combustion engine vehicles, signals a strong inclination toward deregulation and protection of traditional practices in both health care and environmental policy.

Overall, Mullin’s political leaning appears to align with conservative values, prioritizing issues such as energy independence, maternal and child health, and the rights of the Cherokee Nation, along with a broader inclination towards protecting traditional practices and regulatory measures. His legislative efforts and committee involvement provide a comprehensive view of his priorities and the direction he seeks to push within his role as a U.S. Senator.