WASHINGTON, Jan 17, 2025 — Kristi Noem, nominated by President-elect Donald Trump for Secretary of Homeland Security, addressed the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee on Friday, promising to restore Trump-era immigration policies and take a firm approach to border security.

Policy Reinstatements
During her testimony, Noem vowed to reinstate the 'Remain in Mexico' policy, which required asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while U.S. courts processed their cases.

This program was halted by President Joe Biden in 2021. Additionally, she expressed her plans to terminate the CBP One app-based program, which has allowed legal entry for migrants since 2023, along with Biden’s parole initiative permitting migrants with U.S. sponsors to legally enter the country.

“If confirmed and I have the chance to lead, CBP One will be discontinued on Day One,” Noem declared.

She characterized the U.S.-Mexico border as a “war zone,” linking nationwide criminal activity to illegal immigration.

Trump’s Immigration Agenda
President-elect Trump has indicated intentions to execute a series of actions addressing illegal immigration and deportations after assuming office.

Both Trump and Noem have stressed the necessity of strong measures following the high levels of border crossings during Biden’s tenure, even though numbers have decreased recently due to increased enforcement.

As Secretary of Homeland Security, Noem would manage a department of 260,000 employees responsible for border security, deportations, legal immigration processes, cybersecurity, emergency response, and agencies like the U.S. Coast Guard and Secret Service.

Controversies and Criticism
Noem’s nomination has sparked discussion about her qualifications, with critics highlighting her limited direct experience in border security.

Although she led a northern state distant from the southern border, Noem sent South Dakota National Guard troops to help Texas with border security, including a contentious 2021 deployment funded by a Republican donor.

Her nomination has also been scrutinized for her family’s use of the H-2A visa program, which permits temporary agricultural workers to enter the U.S.

Records show her family’s ranch, Racota Valley Ranch Partnership, has applied for 59 H-2A visas since 2015.

In 2021, a spokesperson mentioned that Noem no longer holds a financial interest in the ranch.

Concerns About Worker Shortages
During the hearing, Senator Ruben Gallego expressed concern about the potential effects of mass deportations on sectors like agriculture, which heavily rely on immigrant labor.

Noem did not pledge to protect farm workers but stated the administration would prioritize deporting individuals with criminal backgrounds or final removal orders.

Broader Homeland Security Priorities
Noem criticized the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) for prioritizing misinformation over protecting critical infrastructure.

She also promised to address fentanyl smuggling and explore revising trade laws that enable lower-value shipments to bypass stricter customs checks.

Historical Context
Noem would be among the few Homeland Security secretaries with a background outside the department's typical areas of expertise.

While this might pose challenges, experts like Theresa Cardinal Brown of the Bipartisan Policy Center note that secretaries from varied backgrounds can succeed with proper support and adaptation.

Next Steps
Upon confirmation, Noem will lead the department at a crucial time, with Trump’s administration poised to enact rapid changes to immigration policy.

Her stance signals a return to the aggressive border security measures that marked Trump’s first term.