Trump Prepares for Large-Scale Deportations with Kristi Noem Taking the Helm at Homeland Security

President-elect Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that he will nominate South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem to lead the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This agency is pivotal in executing Trump’s plans for mass deportations of undocumented immigrants.

“Kristi has been very strong on Border Security,” Trump remarked. He emphasized Noem’s close collaboration with “Border Czar” Tom Homan to ensure American borders remain secure. Trump expressed confidence in Noem, stating their long-standing working relationship would benefit the mission to enhance national safety.

DHS is responsible for immigration enforcement and manages protections that enable immigrants to live and work in the United States. Notably, Noem would be the first governor nominated to the Cabinet if confirmed.

The agency employs roughly 260,000 federal workers and operates with a discretionary budget of nearly $62 billion. However, the announcement has already sparked criticism from Democrats, with reports of Noem’s likely selection circulating beforehand.

Senator Elizabeth Warren condemned the governor’s nomination, accusing her of supporting harsh immigration policies. Noem responded to her selection with gratitude, stating she is “honored and humbled.” She reiterated a commitment to work with Homan to enhance safety and security across American communities.

A loyal supporter of Trump, Noem has previously deployed National Guard troops to the Texas border, opposing the current administration’s immigration plan. She served in Congress until 2019 and is currently in her second term as governor, which will conclude in 2026.

In the Trump administration’s second term, Noem will join several former officials known for advocating strict immigration measures. Other prominent appointments include Homan, who previously led ICE and endorsed the contentious family separation policy, and Stephen Miller, who played a key role in Trump’s immigration initiatives.

Vanessa Cárdenas from America’s Voice expressed concern over the implications of these appointments, stating that they signal the intent for widespread and aggressive deportations. She described the combined selection of Miller and Homan as a distressing indication of Trump’s commitment to a historic deportation plan.

Noem’s cabinet nomination will require Senate confirmation, where she may face scrutiny regarding her memoir. In it, she retracted a story about an alleged meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, which raised questions regarding its authenticity. Additionally, her admission of shooting her puppy due to behavioral issues has drawn backlash from various political factions.

The Department of Homeland Security oversees a broad array of agencies, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the Secret Service. The latter is currently facing criticism following shortcomings during an assassination attempt on Trump last summer, which resulted in the resignation of Director Kimberly Cheatle. Ronald L. Rowe is now serving as acting director.