Kristi Noem Faces Confirmation Hearing for Homeland Security Chief Role
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem vows to implement strict immigration policies and reform Homeland Security at her Senate confirmation hearing.
WASHINGTON (AP) — South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, President-elect Donald Trump's nominee to lead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), testified before the Senate on Friday, where she outlined her vision for the department and addressed key issues, including immigration, disaster relief, and cybersecurity. Noem, a two-term governor and former U.S. Congresswoman, promised to take a tough stance on immigration enforcement and implement the president's policies aimed at curbing illegal immigration.
Immigration Focus
Noem’s confirmation hearing was marked by her firm commitment to reversing the policies of her predecessor, Alejandro Mayorkas. The nominee emphasized her dedication to carrying out Trump's vision for tougher immigration measures, which include mass deportations and tighter border controls.
She committed to ending the use of CBP One, a phone app employed by the Biden administration to process asylum-seekers, and also pledged to scale back the use of humanitarian parole—a form of temporary immigration relief. Additionally, Noem vowed to reinstate the controversial "Remain in Mexico" policy, which requires asylum-seekers to wait in Mexico while their U.S. immigration hearings take place.
Noem also highlighted her plans to prioritize deportations of migrants with criminal records and those who have received final deportation orders.
Why She Wants the Job
Acknowledging that her nomination came as a surprise to many, Noem explained that she requested the position because it was central to the president's priorities. She expressed confidence that she could carry out Trump's tough policies and ensure the safety and security of American communities.
"I knew that it needed to have someone in the position that would do what the president promised the American people," Noem said. "I’m strong enough to do it and follow through."
Her nomination is receiving strong support from Republican senators, including Senator Rand Paul, who noted that Noem would need to lead the DHS “which has lost its way.”
Democratic Concerns
However, Democrats raised concerns about Noem’s qualifications to manage such a large and complex department. Senator Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, voiced doubts about her ability to oversee an agency critical to national security.
Disaster Relief and FEMA
At the hearing, Noem was asked about her stance on disaster relief, particularly in light of recent wildfires in California. Noem reassured senators that she would ensure disaster relief is provided equitably, regardless of political affiliation.
“I will deliver the programs according to the law and ensure there’s no political bias,” Noem stated. She also pointed to her experience as governor of South Dakota in responding to natural disasters, saying she would focus on ensuring rapid restoration of essential services like electricity and water.
Noem expressed her intent to streamline communication at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), including creating clear “blueprints” for disaster response.
Cybersecurity and CISA
Another key topic at the hearing was the future of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), which has faced criticism from conservative lawmakers for its involvement in election security efforts. Senator Ron Johnson, a Wisconsin Republican, asked Noem to investigate CISA’s activities, to which she responded that she would work with him to address any concerns.
Secret Service Reform
The hearing also addressed the Secret Service, which falls under the DHS’s purview. In light of a recent assassination attempt against Donald Trump, Noem stressed the need for reform within the agency. She acknowledged that the Secret Service is understaffed and promised to refocus its mission on protecting national security and safeguarding high-level dignitaries.
Noem also assured senators that she would cooperate with ongoing investigations into the assassination attempt.
Looking Ahead
As Noem continues through her confirmation process, her tough stance on immigration and plans to overhaul DHS programs are expected to dominate the conversation. If confirmed, she will take the helm of a department with vast responsibilities, from border security to disaster response, at a time of heightened political division and security concerns.