Trump fires Kristi Noem as homeland secretary after storm over shootings, spending

U.S. President Donald Trump dismissed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on Thursday following months of turmoil. This included the deadly shootings of two American citizens by federal agents in Minneapolis and concerns from lawmakers about a $220 million advertising deal. Trump announced on his Truth Social platform that he plans to appoint Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin to take her place by the end of the month, pending U.S. Senate approval. Noem, who previously served as South Dakota's governor, became a prominent figure in Trump's Cabinet through social media that often depicted immigrants negatively, showcased alleged crimes, and used harsh language. Her exit comes as she faced backlash for her role in an aggressive immigration policy that recent polls show has become unpopular. This change could give Trump a chance to rethink his immigration strategy, which is a key part of his agenda. After Trump revealed Noem's replacement, she shared on X: “We have made historic accomplishments at the Department of Homeland Security to make America safe again.” During congressional hearings this week, both Democrats and some Republicans criticized Noem for her immigration enforcement tactics and the management of her department, especially regarding the $220 million advertising campaign that prominently featured her and was awarded to two longtime Republican consultants without following the usual bidding process. Noem's personal life also faced scrutiny, as a Democratic lawmaker questioned whether she had an affair with her top aide, Corey Lewandowski, despite both being married. Noem labeled the inquiry from U.S. Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove as “tabloid garbage.” Lewandowski did not respond to a request from Reuters for comment. On Thursday, Trump told Reuters that he did not approve the advertising campaign, which included a scene of Noem riding a horse at Mount Rushmore in her home state of South Dakota.