Did Scandals and Bloodshed Finally End Kristi Noem’s Homeland Security Career?
Kristi Noem’s leadership at DHS faced constant turmoil — clashes with Tom Homan, adviser Corey Lewandowski’s unchecked influence, costly private jet travel, a stolen purse incident, and severely low staff morale across the department.
On Jan 24, federal immigration agents killed Alex Pretti, a registered nurse protesting in Minneapolis. Bystander videos triggered nationwide outrage. Noem wrongly called it domestic terrorism. Gregory Bovino’s harsh operations led to lawsuits, chaotic scenes, and mass detentions.
Investigations by The Wall Street Journal exposed Noem’s heavy spending, including an 18-seat private jet with a bedroom. A $200M+ government ad campaign featured her prominently. The inspector general told Congress she “systematically obstructed” oversight.
During congressional hearings, Senator John Kennedy sharply questioned Noem under oath about the ad campaign. She said Trump approved it. Senator Thom Tillis sought her resignation. Noem denied contract claims and called relationship questions “tabloid garbage.”
After watching clips of Noem blaming him, Donald Trump reacted angrily. He told Reuters, “I never knew anything about it.” On Thursday, he fired Noem via social media, named Markwayne Mullin as replacement, and gave her a ceremonial envoy role.
Noem became Trump’s first fired cabinet member. Senator Markwayne Mullin promised improvements. Democrats stayed firm — Chuck Schumer said, “Policy, not personnel.” With DHS in week 3 of shutdown, reports said Noem handpicked contractors, skipping competition.
