Top GOP Senator Calls for Noem's Ouster Amid Immigration Controversy
Republican Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina has become the first Republican to publicly call for Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to step down, citing her "incompetence" in handling immigration issues. The criticism comes after a fatal shooting by US Customs and Border Protection agents that left an intensive care unit nurse dead.
Tillis stated that he has lost all confidence in Noem's leadership, particularly on the issue of border security and immigration, which he believes the administration has botched due to her incompetence. He also expressed disappointment with her performance as Secretary of Homeland Security.
Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska echoed Tillis' sentiments, saying she too has lost faith in Noem's ability to lead the department effectively. Both senators have a history of breaking with the Trump administration and had previously voted to confirm Noem to the position last year.
Despite these calls for her ouster, President Trump expressed his support for Noem, citing her role in reducing border crossings over the past year. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt also defended Noem, stating that she has the president's trust and confidence.
However, internal scrutiny of Noem within the administration suggests that she may not be as secure in her position as initially thought. The Department of Homeland Security has referred questions about Tillis and Murkowski's calls for her resignation to the White House, which points to Trump's and Leavitt's statements expressing support for Noem.
The debate over Noem's future is also being watched by Democrats, who are exploring an impeachment effort against her in the House. While three Republicans would need to join every Democrat for the effort to be successful, it appears highly unlikely at this point.
Republican Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina has become the first Republican to publicly call for Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to step down, citing her "incompetence" in handling immigration issues. The criticism comes after a fatal shooting by US Customs and Border Protection agents that left an intensive care unit nurse dead.
Tillis stated that he has lost all confidence in Noem's leadership, particularly on the issue of border security and immigration, which he believes the administration has botched due to her incompetence. He also expressed disappointment with her performance as Secretary of Homeland Security.
Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska echoed Tillis' sentiments, saying she too has lost faith in Noem's ability to lead the department effectively. Both senators have a history of breaking with the Trump administration and had previously voted to confirm Noem to the position last year.
Despite these calls for her ouster, President Trump expressed his support for Noem, citing her role in reducing border crossings over the past year. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt also defended Noem, stating that she has the president's trust and confidence.
However, internal scrutiny of Noem within the administration suggests that she may not be as secure in her position as initially thought. The Department of Homeland Security has referred questions about Tillis and Murkowski's calls for her resignation to the White House, which points to Trump's and Leavitt's statements expressing support for Noem.
The debate over Noem's future is also being watched by Democrats, who are exploring an impeachment effort against her in the House. While three Republicans would need to join every Democrat for the effort to be successful, it appears highly unlikely at this point.