Kristi Noem clears procedural hurdle on road to Homeland Security confirmation
Governor Kristi Noem, a Republican from South Dakota, has cleared a major hurdle in her confirmation process to become the next Secretary of Homeland Security. The Senate advanced her nomination to a final vote, which is expected to take place early Sunday morning.
If confirmed, Governor Noem will be the fourth of former President Donald Trump’s picks to be approved by the Senate, following Secretary of State Marco Rubio, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, and incoming Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. Votes for Treasury Secretary nominee Scott Bessent and Transportation Secretary pick Sean Duffy are expected to follow Governor Noem’s confirmation.
Governor Noem’s nomination received bipartisan support, with the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee voting 13-2 in favor of advancing her nomination. Only two Democrats voted against her confirmation.
During her confirmation hearing, Governor Noem emphasized her commitment to border security, stating, “I was the first Governor to send National Guard troops to Texas when they were being overwhelmed by an unprecedented border crisis. If confirmed as Secretary, I will ensure that our exceptional, extraordinary border patrol agents have all the tools, resources, and support they need to carry out their mission effectively.”
Governor Noem’s nomination is expected to receive bipartisan support in the full Senate vote. Her experience and dedication to border security make her a strong candidate for the position of Secretary of Homeland Security.
Julia Johnson is a politics writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business, leading coverage of the U.S. Senate. She was previously a politics reporter at the Washington Examiner. Follow Julia’s reporting on Twitter at @JuliaaJohnson_ and send tips to Julia.Johnson@fox.com.
