In her opening statement to the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem is expected to emphasize border security as a top priority. Noem, nominated by President-elect Trump to lead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), aims to address Americans' growing concerns about safety and security.
Noem's remarks, obtained by Fox News Digital, highlight her background as a "wife, mother, grandmother, farmer, rancher, businesswoman, and governor" from rural America. She expresses a "deep sense of responsibility and humility" for the nomination and a commitment to keeping Americans safe.
Chosen by President-elect Trump after his victory, Noem's border security efforts during the Biden administration's immigration crisis played a significant role in her selection. The DHS oversees key agencies like Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Secret Service, and FEMA.
Noem's statement underscores her commitment to securing the border, referencing her deployment of National Guard troops to border states, including repeated deployments to Texas for Operation Lone Star. She advocates for a "fair and lawful immigration system" and highlights public support for Trump's immigration policies.
She plans to ensure that DHS agents have the necessary resources and support, aiming to restore dignity to their work. Noem also intends to address criminal aliens, emphasizing the importance of removing them from communities to enhance safety.
Beyond border security, Noem's remarks touch upon her leadership experience as South Dakota's governor, managing a substantial budget and workforce. She has tackled issues like cybersecurity, human trafficking, drug interdiction, and natural disasters, giving her relevant experience for the DHS role. She also highlights endorsements from law enforcement groups and unions.
Noem emphasizes disaster resilience, drawing on her experience working with FEMA during various natural disasters in South Dakota. She pledges to prioritize cybersecurity, protecting vital infrastructure from threats. Her proactive approach to cybersecurity is informed by her work with Dakota State University, a leader in cybersecurity education.
Noem concludes by expressing her commitment to collaborating with the committee, Congress, and DHS personnel to ensure the United States remains a bastion of freedom, safety, and security. She seeks their trust and vote as she prepares to undertake this crucial role.
