Updated Jan 25, 2025 - Politics & Policy

Kristi Noem wins Senate approval to lead Trump's DHS

The Senate voted 59-34 Saturday to confirm South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem as head of the Department of Homeland Security

Why it matters: Noem, a Trump loyalist and immigration hardliner, will play a crucial role in implementing President Trump's immigration policies, including his plans to carry out mass deportations and shut down the border.

Seven Democrats joined Republicans in backing the nomination.
The role also places Noem in charge of FEMA — a part of DHS— which Trump has proposed eliminating to force states to do more disaster relief independently.

Catch up quick: The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee voted 13-2 Monday in favor of her nomination.

Noem, 53, was the first governor to deploy state National Guard troops to the U.S.-Mexico border in Texas.
She resigned her post as governor on Saturday, and Gov. Larry Rhoden, formerly South Dakota's lieutenant governor, now has the role.

Go deeper: ICE returns to calling immigrants "aliens"

Editor's note: This story has been updated with additional reporting.