Kristi Noem, the Governor of South Dakota, has been selected as President-elect Donald Trump’s choice for Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. Known for her strong stance on border security and immigration, Noem’s appointment comes as part of Trump’s continued focus on national security. As she steps into this high-profile role, many are curious about her experience and beliefs.
Here’s all you need to know about Donald Trump’s Homeland Security Secretary.
Donald Trump picks Kristi Noem as Homeland Security Secretary
President-elect Donald Trump has chosen South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem as his pick for the next Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) (via CNN). This indicates Trump’s continued focus on tough immigration policies and national security.
The president-elect announced Noem’s selection, emphasizing her strong stance on border security. Trump said in his statement, “Kristi has been very strong on Border Security. She will work closely with ‘Border Czar’ Tom Homan to secure the Border, and will guarantee that our American Homeland is secure from our adversaries.”
Noem, who served as a representative for South Dakota before becoming governor, is often known to take tough positions on issues pertaining to immigration. She opposed the Obama administration’s lawsuit that challenged a controversial Arizona immigration law back in 2010.
Noem also supported punitive measures against “sanctuary cities” that reportedly protected undocumented immigrants. Despite not representing a border state, Noem’s tough immigration stance aligns with Trump’s domestic agenda.
Noem’s selection as the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security comes after reports suggesting the potential appointments of Stephen Miller and Tom Homan in senior roles within the Trump administration surfaced recently. Like Noem, both Miller and Homan are known for their tough stance on immigration.
As DHS Secretary, Noem will oversee a $60 billion department that includes U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the Secret Service.
Her leadership will be especially crucial following the turmoil DHS faced during Trump’s previous term, which saw five different leaders. Noem has been a fervent supporter of Trump and was one of the first governors to endorse his 2024 campaign.
