Thompson Urges Noem to Resign During Hearing
During a House Homeland Security Committee hearing centered on “global threats to the homeland,” Mississippi Representative Bennie Thompson called for Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to step down. He criticized her for allegedly dismantling the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and prioritizing personal interests over national safety.
Thompson stated, “You are making America less safe. So, rather than sit here and waste your time and ours with more corruption, lies, and malfeasance, I ask you to resign. Do your country a true service and just resign. That’s if President Trump doesn’t fire you first.”
As Noem began her opening statement, a group of protesters, opposed to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), interrupted by chanting, “Get ICE off our streets” and “Stop terrorizing our communities.” They were subsequently detained by Capitol Police outside the hearing room.
In a light-hearted moment, Noem mentioned that one of her grandchildren, who was present, appeared to cry during Thompson’s remarks, jokingly suggesting the child likely disagreed with him. Noem defended the DHS’s efforts in securing the southern border and protecting the nation.
She asserted, “DHS is rooting out transnational organized crime and stopping deadly drugs from continuing to flow into our communities. We are eliminating illegal immigration and defending against cyberattacks on critical infrastructure.” Noem also highlighted the growing threats posed by domestic and Islamic extremist terrorism, particularly as the U.S. prepares for significant events in 2026, like the World Cup and the nation’s 250th anniversary.
“These large-scale events are potential targets for various bad actors and pose an increased level of risk,” she said, emphasizing DHS’s commitment to ensuring public safety.
Despite speculation regarding her potential replacement, Noem responded to rumors on Fox News, stating the claims were false and reaffirming her positive relationship with President Trump. “I am very proud to work for him and look forward to continuing to serve him at his pleasure,” she remarked.
