Following a series of scheduling adjustments, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem was officially sworn in as the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. The ceremony, conducted by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas at his residence, took place on Saturday evening. Initially planned for the Indian Treaty Room within the Eisenhower Executive Office Building in Washington, D.C., the event was delayed several times before its eventual relocation.
Noem expressed her gratitude in a social media post, highlighting the honor of being sworn in by Justice Thomas. She thanked President Trump for entrusting her with the responsibility of safeguarding the nation. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, who attended the ceremony with his wife, Sharon, also shared his support for Noem on social media, praising her leadership and emphasizing her commitment to prioritizing American interests.
Prior to the revised schedule, several officials, including Senate Majority Leader John Thune, Senator Bernie Moreno, and Senator Mike Rounds, had gathered at the original venue in anticipation of the ceremony. A spokesperson for the vice president attributed the delay to a scheduling conflict, while affirming their enthusiasm for Noem's upcoming work at the Department of Homeland Security, particularly in securing the border.
Noem's confirmation earlier that day by a Senate vote of 59-34 marked her as the fourth Trump nominee to receive chamber approval. Among her primary objectives is strengthening border security and addressing the current immigration system. Noem has stated her commitment to empowering law enforcement, enhancing intelligence and counterterrorism efforts, and ensuring efficient disaster relief for Americans.
The Trump administration has already implemented measures to enhance border security, such as deploying military personnel, resuming wall construction, and discontinuing the previous administration's parole programs. President Trump publicly acknowledged Noem's appointment at a rally in Las Vegas, commending her strength and determination. Noem herself expressed gratitude for the president's and the Senate's confidence in her, pledging to work towards restoring the United States as a symbol of freedom and security.
Before her appointment, Noem served as South Dakota's first female governor. In 2021, she declared her refusal to accept additional migrants from the Biden administration and deployed the National Guard to the Texas border. With a background as a rancher, farmer, and small business owner, Noem also served in the South Dakota legislature before being elected as the state's sole representative in the U.S. House of Representatives.
