What to know about Kristi Noem, the ‘border hawk’ nominated by Trump to lead DHS
President-elect Trump made a significant announcement on Tuesday, revealing that he had selected South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem to lead the Department of Homeland Security. This key agency is responsible for addressing crucial issues such as border security, emergency relief efforts, and cybersecurity. Trump highlighted Governor Noem’s proactive measures as governor, particularly her decision to deploy National Guard soldiers to the southern border in Texas. He praised her strong stance on border security and expressed confidence in her ability to work alongside Border Czar Tom Homan to secure the nation’s borders and protect American homeland from adversaries.
In response to her appointment, Governor Noem expressed feeling honored and humbled by the selection. She pledged to work closely with President-elect Trump to ensure the safety and security of American communities, allowing families to pursue the American dream without fear. Noem, who previously served as a member of Congress, was elected as governor of South Dakota in 2018 and secured re-election in 2022. She is married to Byron and is a mother of three children.
While some may have been surprised by Noem’s selection, a source familiar with the appointment noted that she had set a precedent by deploying National Guard soldiers to the border, demonstrating a proactive approach to border security. Noem also brings valuable experience in other areas of the DHS’s mission. Notably, she banned TikTok from state-owned devices in 2022 due to the company’s ties to China. Additionally, South Dakota has made significant strides in cybersecurity, with Dakota State University boasting a top cyber unit in the country. Noem has actively supported the growth of the cybersecurity industry in the state, investing in expanding cyber programs and creating job opportunities for residents.
Governor Noem’s experience with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) further bolsters her qualifications for leading the DHS, having dealt with flooding and natural disasters in South Dakota. FEMA’s handling of hurricanes this year has drawn scrutiny, making Noem’s expertise in emergency relief efforts invaluable. On the issue of border security, Noem has supported a pause on accepting migrants from terrorist hot spots and has aligned with President-elect Trump’s priorities on national security and deportations of public safety threats.
Despite some controversy surrounding her admission of shooting a family dog deemed dangerous, Noem has garnered support from prominent figures such as former acting DHS Secretary Chad Wolf and Texas Governor Greg Abbott. Wolf commended her as a “fantastic pick” with a successful track record as governor, while Abbott praised her no-nonsense approach to border security. The appointment of Governor Noem follows a series of hawkish appointments to Trump’s administration, including former ICE Director Tom Homan as the “border czar” and Stephen Miller as assistant to the president and deputy chief of staff for policy and homeland security adviser.
As Governor Noem prepares to take on this critical role, her experience, leadership, and commitment to securing the nation’s borders and ensuring public safety will be essential in fulfilling the DHS’s mission. The American people can expect a dedicated and proactive approach to addressing the pressing challenges facing the country’s homeland security under her leadership.
