Overview

• Noem's social media post during a January ICE raid in New York City reportedly compromised operational secrecy, resulting in fewer arrests than planned.
• Critics argue her 'made-for-TV' leadership style, including glamorous photo ops and publicized ride-alongs, hinders ICE's covert operations and arrest quotas.
• DHS insiders view Noem as a spokesperson prioritizing media visibility over traditional administrative duties, raising internal frustration.
• Under her leadership, DHS has allocated $200 million for a media campaign to deter illegal migration, a centerpiece of the administration’s anti-immigration agenda.
• Despite criticism, DHS claims record-low border encounters, attributing the success to Noem’s aggressive messaging and public-facing strategy.