The Senate on Saturday confirmed South Dakota governor Kristi Noem as Department of homeland security secretary, putting her in charge of a vast agency crucial to national security and President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.
Noem, a staunch Trump ally, will oversee key agencies like US Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Citizenship and Immigration Services. The department also handles airline security, natural disaster response, and dignitary protection.
Republicans expressed confidence in Noem’s leadership. “Fixing this crisis and restoring respect for the rule of law is one of President Trump and Republicans’ top priorities,” Senate Majority Leader John Thune said. “I believe Kristi has everything it takes to undertake this task.”
The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee advanced her nomination earlier in the week with bipartisan support in a 13-2 vote, though some Democrats remained opposed. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer criticised Noem’s approach, stating, “She seems headed in the wrong direction.”
During her hearing, Noem pledged to administer disaster aid impartially but avoided directly stating she would defy President Trump if asked to withhold aid. “I will deliver the programmes according to the law and that it will be done with no political bias,” she said.
Noem, a two-term governor and former US House representative, has aligned closely with Trump’s policies, including his tough stance on border security. She echoed his rhetoric of an “invasion” at the US-Mexico border and previously deployed National Guard troops to Texas as part of Operation Lone Star. The move drew criticism after a $1 million donation from a Tennessee billionaire helped cover costs.
Six individuals served as homeland security secretary during Trump’s first term, highlighting the challenging nature of the role. Noem now faces pressing issues such as immigration enforcement and potential changes to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Trump’s plans to involve the military in immigration enforcement and reshape DHS functions could further spotlight Noem’s leadership as the administration seeks to fulfil its deportation goals.