Sun Jan 26 01:44:27 UTC 2025: ## South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem Confirmed as Homeland Security Secretary

**Washington, D.C. –** Kristi Noem, the former Governor of South Dakota, has been confirmed as the new Homeland Security Secretary by the U.S. Senate, securing a 59-34 vote on Saturday. The confirmation places Noem, a close ally of President Donald Trump, at the head of a department crucial to national security and the administration’s immigration enforcement plans.

Noem’s appointment follows the confirmation of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and comes ahead of a Monday vote on Scott Bessent for Treasury Secretary. Seven Democrats joined Republicans in supporting Noem’s confirmation. While Republicans expressed confidence in her commitment to border security, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer voiced opposition, citing concerns about her approach to immigration.

Noem’s confirmation was briefly delayed, but she subsequently pledged to secure the southern border, reform the immigration system, combat terrorism, and provide disaster relief. The Homeland Security Department oversees agencies including Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Citizenship and Immigration Services, and has broad responsibilities in national security and disaster response.

Noem’s appointment comes as President Trump plans significant changes to the department, potentially involving the military in immigration enforcement and restructuring FEMA. Her past actions, including sending South Dakota National Guard troops to assist Texas’ Operation Lone Star, have drawn criticism. While she justified her decision by describing the border situation as a “war zone,” the acceptance of a $1 million donation to cover deployment costs sparked controversy.

Noem’s political trajectory has been closely linked to President Trump; she was even considered for his running mate. However, her recent book, which included a controversial account of killing her hunting dog and a false claim of meeting North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, caused a temporary setback. Following her confirmation, Lieutenant Governor Larry Rhoden assumed the governorship of South Dakota. Noem’s future will likely be defined by her ability to navigate the challenges of implementing President Trump’s stringent immigration policies.

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