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As the Department of Homeland Security grapples with a turbulent climate, Secretary Kristi Noem finds herself in the crosshairs of political ire, facing calls for resignation from both sides of the aisle. Following a series of tragic shootings in Minneapolis linked to her aggressive immigration enforcement tactics, Noem’s once-celebrated ascent through the political ranks is now overshadowed by allegations of mismanagement and heavy-handedness.
A Rapid Ascent to Power
Kristi Noem, the 54-year-old former governor of South Dakota, has experienced a remarkable rise to prominence since taking office as Secretary of Homeland Security in January 2025. Her trajectory began on a ranch in Waterdown, South Dakota, and through sheer determination, she carved her path into politics, winning her first election to the state legislature in 2006. Subsequently, she ascended to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2011, before becoming governor in 2018—a role in which she gained notoriety for her staunch resistance to COVID-19 restrictions.
Noem’s alignment with Donald Trump, particularly during his 2016 campaign, solidified her status within conservative circles. However, her appointment to lead the DHS marked a turning point, as her strict immigration policies quickly drew fire from critics.
Minneapolis Shootings Spark Outrage
The recent fatalities in Minneapolis have ignited a firestorm of controversy surrounding Noem’s leadership. On January 20, 2026, Renee Good, a mother of three, was shot dead by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent, while a week later, Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old nurse, was killed by a Border Patrol officer during Operation Metro Surge. These incidents have provoked widespread protests, with demonstrators decrying the aggressive tactics employed by federal agents.
Noem’s defence of the actions taken by the agents involved has only heightened the backlash. She has controversially characterised Good’s actions as “domestic terrorism” and claimed that Pretti had brandished a weapon before being shot—a narrative that has been met with considerable skepticism. As the political storm brews, demands for her resignation are growing louder.
The ‘ICE Barbie’ Controversy
Since assuming her role, Noem has earned the unflattering moniker “ICE Barbie,” a nod to her stylistic choices and her unyielding approach to immigration enforcement. Her decision to revoke temporary protected status for approximately 600,000 Venezuelans fleeing political turmoil under President Nicolás Maduro’s regime has further alienated many, raising questions about her commitment to humanitarian principles.
Despite widespread criticism, the White House has publicly backed Noem, asserting that she retains President Trump’s “utmost confidence.” This defence, however, has done little to quell the rising tide of dissent among lawmakers, who have labelled her handling of the immigration crisis as “amateurish” and dangerously reckless.
Past Controversies Resurface
Noem’s tenure has not been without its share of personal controversies. In her memoir, she disclosed a harrowing incident in which she euthanised her pet dog, Cricket, after it reportedly misbehaved during a hunting trip. The revelation sparked outrage, with critics asserting that this act would permanently tarnish her political image. Her attempts to justify the decision on the Glenn Beck Program only fuelled the fire, leading to social media backlash and satirical depictions on shows like South Park.
Moreover, her contentious relationships with Native American tribes in South Dakota, particularly the Oglala Sioux and Cheyenne River Sioux, have further complicated her standing. Her actions regarding state laws and the treatment of her daughter during a professional licensing process have only added to the perception of privilege and disregard for community concerns.
Why it Matters
The unfolding saga surrounding Kristi Noem underscores a pivotal moment in American politics, where the intersection of immigration policy, law enforcement, and accountability is under intense scrutiny. With protests erupting in response to her administration’s tactics, the implications of her actions reverberate far beyond the borders of Minneapolis. As the nation grapples with issues of justice and the treatment of immigrants, Noem’s fate within the DHS may ultimately reflect broader societal tensions and the urgent need for a reassessment of enforcement strategies that impact vulnerable communities.
