WASHINGTON — An increasing number of political figures and advocacy groups are demanding that Kristi Noem resign from her position as Secretary of Homeland Security, following the deaths of two protesters in Minneapolis associated with immigration enforcement. This incident has sparked widespread criticism from across the political spectrum, highlighting the controversy enveloping the department's approach under Noem’s stewardship.
High-ranking Democrats including House Representatives Hakeem Jeffries of New York, Katherine Clark of Massachusetts, and Pete Aguilar of California issued a joint statement condemning the Department of Homeland Security's actions, insisting that Noem must be removed from office immediately. They further warned that failure to do so would lead to impeachment proceedings in the House.
Initial harsh criticism of Noem has evolved into a significant political juncture, as impeachment legislation, though initially considered unlikely due to Republican control of the House, has gained traction. Noem's leadership has been under intense scrutiny due to her assertive style and statements made after the shootings of Alex Pretti and Renee Good. These included assertions that Pretti attacked officers and that Good’s shooting was an act of domestic terrorism, claims that have been contradicted by eyewitness accounts and on-the-ground developments.
Noem’s close collaboration with Border Patrol Chief Greg Bovino, who was recently withdrawn from the Minnesota operation as Tom Homan assumed command, has contributed to her isolated standing among Capitol Hill lawmakers.
Notably, key Republican Senators have voiced dissatisfaction with Noem's handling of the situation. Senator Thom Tillis from North Carolina declared her actions disqualifying, stating she should be removed from her post. Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska echoed this sentiment and suggested she should consider stepping down.
Despite this bipartisan pressure, President Donald Trump has publicly supported Noem, repeatedly affirming confidence in her performance. In multiple interactions with the press, including a Fox News interview, Trump highlighted her role in closing the border, crediting her and her team with a "tremendous success" in border security. When asked if she would resign, Trump simply responded, "No."
Meanwhile, Democrats in Congress have threatened to withhold funding for Homeland Security as part of their opposition to the administration’s immigration enforcement strategies. The ongoing debate centers around the aggressive nature of recent deportation operations, which have included the removal of families and children, drawing national attention and sparking ethical and political disputes.
Republican congressional leaders from the House and Senate overseeing Homeland Security have requested department officials to testify before their committees to provide explanations for the recent enforcement tactics, which have shocked many observers due to their forcefulness.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune, a Republican from South Dakota, described the current moment as an opportunity to critically evaluate and reassess the implementation and administration of Homeland Security policies. Yet, he emphasized that confidence in Noem’s leadership remains a decision for the President.
Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer has sharply criticized Noem, labeling her a "liar" and demanding her dismissal.
Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin defended the department’s actions, asserting that Homeland Security is tasked with enforcing federally enacted laws and that dissatisfaction with these laws should be addressed by legislators. She criticized politicians who attack law enforcement personnel while defending those accused of violating immigration laws, underscoring the ongoing political polarization surrounding immigration enforcement.
While Democrats seek to impose limits on Border Patrol and ICE operations through appropriations legislation amidst potential government shutdown risks, the extent to which Congress can restrict Homeland Security funding is constrained due to prior budget increases under Republican-led tax legislation.
Conversely, conservative factions such as the House Freedom Caucus have expressed staunch support for the administration’s immigration policies, even encouraging the President to invoke the Insurrection Act if necessary to manage protests. They have pledged readiness to defend and sustain funding for immigration enforcement and removal actions.
Since assuming office about a year ago, Noem has experienced friction with members of Congress from both parties, particularly regarding oversight of departmental expenditures and operational decisions. Following the Minneapolis incident, she maintained a subdued public profile, briefly reemerging for an interview wherein she reiterated her criticisms of local officials while also expressing sympathy for the Pretti family and concern for law enforcement personnel facing street violence.
The use of impeachment as a political instrument has become increasingly frequent, with prior cases including the impeachment of another Homeland Security Secretary, Alejandro Mayorkas, by a Republican-led House over border policies in the previous administration; although the Senate dismissed those charges.
Recently, Maryland Representative Jamie Raskin, the lead Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee, signaled intent to pursue impeachment proceedings related to the Minneapolis events and alleged departmental misconduct, emphasizing the potential for high crimes or misdemeanors. This momentum is reflected in the support from over 160 House Democrats for an impeachment resolution introduced by Representative Robin Kelly of Illinois.