US Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin reportedly shares a Capitol Hill home with his close friend, Republican Congressman Jason Smith, in an unusual arrangement that has prompted questions about living costs and House ethics rules. Mullin’s representative says he is Smith’s landlord, while sources describe the property as a part-time “crash pad” used by people coming and going.

Mullin bought the four-bedroom Washington townhouse in 2023, and it is valued at about $1.8 million. The article says there is no public record of Smith’s rent, while House rules prohibit members from accepting gifts worth more than $100 from one source annually; below-market rent could potentially qualify, although no violation is established. Mullin’s financial disclosures report rental income from properties held through Mullin Realty LLC, which owns more than 40 properties.