Homeland Security Secretary Critiques Sanctuary States Over Driver Licenses

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has spoken out against sanctuary states, claiming they are enabling undocumented immigrants to acquire commercial driver’s licenses. She expressed concern that inexperienced drivers are turning large trucks into “weapons.”

Noem particularly called out California Governor Gavin Newsom following a tragic incident on October 21, where a truck driven by an undocumented immigrant led to the deaths of three individuals.

“He’s handing out driver’s licenses to undocumented individuals, some of whom remain unnamed,” Noem stated during an appearance on “American Report.”

The Secretary disclosed that she found a driver’s license marked “name not specified” that was used to secure a commercial driver’s license.

“Governor Newsom needs to prioritize saving lives above all,” she insisted.

Both Noem and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy accused Newsom of permitting immigrants in the country to gain commercial permits unlawfully.

This scrutiny arises after the aforementioned incident in Southern California, where Jashanpreet Singh, a 21-year-old from India, allegedly drove a semi-truck under the influence, contributing to a multi-vehicle accident that resulted in three fatalities.

Noem emphasized the need for thorough investigations into how these untrained individuals are permitted to navigate our roads. “They don’t know how to operate these vehicles; they may not speak our language and cannot interpret our laws,” she added, noting the potential dangers they pose.

In response, Newsom’s office defended California’s commercial driver’s license regulations, asserting they adhere to federal guidelines. They highlighted that it was federal policies that allowed the suspect to obtain a license and suggested the federal government bears responsibility for the crash.

“What often gets overlooked during these discussions is that California-issued CDL drivers are involved in fatal accidents at a significantly lower rate than the national average,” a spokesperson for Newsom previously remarked. “If safety is what we care about, California should exemplify this, not be vilified.”

Noem also mentioned that DHS immigration enforcement actions have led to the capture of numerous illegal immigrant truck drivers. “Operation Midway Blitz has successfully apprehended over 140 illegal alien truck drivers in Indiana. The dedicated personnel at @ICEgov and the Indiana State Police are diligently working to eliminate criminal illegal immigrants from our communities and roadways,” Noem shared on X (formerly Twitter).