A protester interrupts a House Homeland Security Committee hearing featuring Joseph Kent, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, and FBI official Michael Glasheen on Capitol Hill in Washington on Dec. 11, 2025. (Mark Schiefelbein/AP)
"DHS is eradicating transnational organized crime and the stopping of deadly drugs from continuing to be funneled into our communities," she told lawmakers. "We're ending illegal immigration, returning sanity back to our immigration system, and we're defending against cyberattacks against our critical infrastructure."
NOEM CALLS FOR 'FULL TRAVEL BAN' ON COUNTRIES 'FLOODING' US WITH IMMIGRANTS AFTER DC ATTACK
The former South Dakota governor, speaking about the global threats facing the country — including those posed by domestic extremists and radical Islamic terrorism — said the U.S. should brace for heightened risks as it prepares to host major events in 2026 such as the World Cup and the nation’s 250th birthday.
"These large-scale events will be potential targets for a range of bad actors, and they come with an increased level of risk. DHS is using every tool and authority we have to ensure the safety of U.S. citizens, and our visitors can enjoy next year's events," Noem added.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is sworn in for the House Homeland Security Committee hearing on Capitol Hill on Dec. 11, 2025. (Mark Schiefelbein/AP)
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Rumors had swirled in recent days that President Donald Trump was considering replacing her as head of DHS. Trump pushed back on those rumors on Wednesday, telling reporters that Noem has been "fantastic."
Noem also addressed the rumors, speaking to Fox News prior to Thursday's hearing.
"Oh, that's absolutely not true," she said. "President Trump and I are doing wonderfully. I'm so proud to work for him, and I'm going to continue to serve at his pleasure."
Fox News' Bill Melugin contributed to this report.
Ashley Carnahan is a writer at Fox News Digital.
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/dem-rep-opens-house-hearing-telling-noem-resign-fiery-statement