Democratic lawmakers have taken significant steps to hold Kristi Noem accountable for her actions as Homeland Security Secretary during Donald Trump’s administration. Representative Robin Kelly has since formally introduced articles of impeachment against Noem. She referred to at least three high crimes and misdemeanors, including violation of public trust and obstruction of Congress. This policy change follows the recent high-profile, additional-judicial murder of U.S. citizen Renee Nicole Good by an immigration enforcement agent in Minneapolis. The incident generated national outrage over Noem’s heavy-handed enforcement tactics.
What started as a long shot has now gained overwhelming momentum, including bipartisan support within Congress from 70 members of Congress supporting Kelly’s Congressional effort. The articles of impeachment allege that Noem engaged in “warrantless arrests,” utilized “violence against U.S. citizens and lawful individuals,” and demonstrated a “reckless use of power” that contributed to Good’s death.
Kelly has been highly critical of Noem’s moves. She announced, “Secretary Noem has taken her reign of terror transcontinental—from the Chicagoland area, to LA, New Orleans, Charlotte, Durham, and communities from coast to coast! She highlighted the ways in which Noem’s actions constitute a violation of her public office responsibilities.
Tensions over Noem’s behavior flared again following Noem’s run-in with Good. In turn, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey ordered that the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency remove itself from his city’s jurisdiction. Frey’s comments highlight a growing local frustration with the federal enforcement operations, adding to the toxic political atmosphere already surrounding Noem’s heavy-handed approach to leadership.
Noem is now up against very grave charges, including threats of violence and subverting the public’s trust. Further, charges of self-dealing have surfaced because of her department’s enforcement tactics. Fellow Illinois Democrat Delia Ramirez previously attempted to initiate impeachment proceedings against Noem amid an immigration crackdown in Chicago, highlighting ongoing dissatisfaction with her policies.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries was unequivocal in his call for accountability to be swift and on the ground. He said, “We haven’t ruled anything in and we haven’t ruled anything out right now. Nothing should be off the table from the perspective of absolute and utter accountability.” Jeffries’ comments reflected the same sentiments expressed by other lawmakers who want to see Noem accountable for her behavior.
Kelly’s articles of impeachment present troubling allegations, which if proven, demonstrate the legal and ethical violations of Noem’s behavior while in office. She said Noem’s actions would be felt for years and warned that it would set a bad precedent. “You have broken your oath of office, and you will pay for it,” she said.
As the impeachment process unfolds, many are closely monitoring the situation, particularly in light of the ongoing scrutiny of Noem’s department regarding its enforcement tactics. These increasing demands shine light on the critical injustices of current federal immigration policy. These policies have tremendous impact on communities large and small across the country.