Noem’s remarks came during an appearance on Fox News with Sean Hannity, where she echoed comments made earlier by U.S. Attorney Pam Bondi. Bondi also indicated that her office would investigate whether CNN’s promotion of the app violated federal laws or assisted in unlawful behavior.

During the segment, Hannity questioned whether CNN’s actions amounted to aiding and abetting criminal activity. Noem responded affirmatively, calling the promotion “shameful” and praising Bondi for being proactive in pursuing legal accountability against those responsible.

Noem emphasized the increasing threats faced by ICE and Border Patrol agents. She cited a 700% rise in violence against these law enforcement officials and noted that their families have also been targeted through doxxing and threats. She called the agents “heroes” for working under difficult conditions and protecting their communities.

The DHS secretary further argued that many of these agents are integral members of their communities—they live, worship, and send their children to school in the areas they serve. According to her, media platforms like CNN that publicize tools to monitor law enforcement activities are endangering not just the officers but their families as well.

Noem said that such actions may be prosecutable and should be thoroughly investigated. She accused CNN of lying about border security for years, calling their reporting misleading and harmful to national security.

Meanwhile, CNN is facing internal instability. Warner Bros. Discovery recently announced a corporate restructuring that will split its media assets into two separate companies, affecting CNN’s place in the larger organization. The move is expected to finalize by mid-2026.