Thu Feb 20 16:00:00 UTC 2025: ## DHS to Use Polygraphs to Crack Down on Leaks, Sparking Controversy
**Washington, D.C.** – Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has announced a new policy mandating the use of polygraph tests to investigate leaks of sensitive information within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The directive, issued last week, requires all DHS polygraph examinations to include questions about unauthorized communication with media and non-profit organizations.
The move comes after Secretary Noem and White House border czar Tom Homan blamed leaks for disrupting planned immigration enforcement operations in Colorado and California. The directive is part of a broader crackdown on employee communications following recent workforce and policy changes. This includes a new prohibition on media contact at FEMA without prior authorization from senior officials.
A DHS spokesperson defended the policy, stating that as a national security agency, polygraphing personnel is necessary. US Customs and Border Protection, the primary user of polygraphs within DHS, is already required by federal law to use them for all law enforcement positions.
However, the policy has drawn criticism. Critics question the reliability of polygraph tests, highlighting their inadmissibility in court proceedings. Republican lawmakers have previously pushed to eliminate polygraph requirements for Border Patrol applicants due to a high failure rate. The new directive is likely to fuel further debate about the efficacy and fairness of using polygraph tests to address internal leaks within government agencies.
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