Trump weighs replacing Noem as frustrations build among White House officials, GOP lawmakers
Amid growing frustrations in both the White House and Congress over Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s leadership, President Trump is weighing a replacement, signaling a shakeup at DHS. Scrutiny has intensified around her management decisions, including an expensive ad campaign that highlighted her and questions over a paused TSA precheck during a funding lapse, which was reversed within hours. Testimony at two congressional hearings and a feud with White House adviser Corey Lewandowski have further eroded confidence among GOP lawmakers. Trump has floated possible replacements to Hill allies, while some Republicans push back, saying it’s too early to decide. The situation unfolds as concerns over DHS's handling of immigration and funding persist, with no clear successor yet in place.
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Noem faces mounting internal and congressional scrutiny over leadership style, conduct, and perceived missteps since taking the DHS helm.
The department’s ad campaign, prominently featuring Noem, raised questions about bidding practices and cost, with some noting a substantial taxpayer-funded outlay.
A decision to pause TSA precheck during a funding lapse drew howls of opposition and was reversed within hours, highlighting management controversies.
Two recent congressional hearings featured sharp exchanges, including Republicans like Sen. Thom Tillis and Sen. John Kennedy challenging Noem’s disclosures and leadership.
Trump has told some Republican lawmakers he’s open to replacing Noem and has floated various potential replacements, signaling intent to reassess the post.
Tensions extend to Noem’s top aide, Corey Lewandowski, and a long-running feud with White House border czar Tom Homan, complicating intra-administration dynamics.
Support among GOP senators has weakened, with some refusing to commit to Noem’s future as questions about her agency’s performance persist.