On Saturday, the Senate confirmed South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem as Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with a 59–34 vote. All Republicans voted in favor, and Noem faced minimal opposition, having been advanced by the Senate Homeland Security Committee with a 13–2 vote. Noem becomes the fourth Trump nominee confirmed, joining Secretary of State Marco Rubio, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.

Noem takes over DHS at a time when securing the U.S. border and addressing illegal immigration are major priorities for the administration. Key steps have been taken, including deploying military personnel to the border, resuming wall construction, and ending Biden-era parole programs. Additionally, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has launched nationwide deportation operations.

During her confirmation hearing, Noem emphasized the importance of securing borders, combating terrorism, improving cybersecurity, and providing disaster relief. She stated that securing the border would be her top priority, reflecting her strong stance on immigration during her tenure as governor, where she deployed the National Guard to assist with Texas border security and resisted accepting migrants from the Biden administration.

Noem was also asked about her coordination with Border Czar Tom Homan, assuring the Senate that she and Homan would work closely together. She highlighted the need for a fair and effective immigration system while stressing the importance of upholding the nation’s security.

Even some Democratic leaders, like Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, have expressed support for the enforcement of immigration policies, particularly in apprehending dangerous criminals, regardless of their immigration status.