The Kristi Noem DHS removal was announced Thursday, March 5, after weeks of growing tension in Washington. President Donald Trump confirmed on Truth Social that he is replacing Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security.
Instead of remaining at the Department of Homeland Security, Noem will take on a new position within the administration.
Why Kristi Noem Was Replaced
Kristi Noem had faced mounting criticism from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. For nearly a month, legislators have struggled to reach an agreement to resume funding for the Department of Homeland Security.
This week intensified the scrutiny. Noem testified before both the Senate Judiciary Committee and the House Judiciary Committee. During those hearings, lawmakers questioned her handling of taxpayer funds and raised concerns about leadership decisions inside DHS.
One major issue involved a reported $200 million advertising campaign funded with taxpayer dollars. According to lawmakers, the company awarded the contract was created just 11 days before receiving the deal. There was reportedly no competitive bidding process.
Senator John Kennedy, R-LA, highlighted the timeline during questioning. Lawmakers also raised questions about whether the campaign had been approved at the highest levels. Reports indicated the decision may have occurred without Trump’s knowledge, despite claims that he was aware of it.
Additional allegations about Noem’s conduct were also raised during the hearings, contributing to the political pressure surrounding her role.
See the commercial for DHS that came from that contract, here:
Trump Announces Noem’s New Role
In his announcement, Trump did not reference the controversy directly. Instead, he thanked Noem for her service and highlighted what he described as strong results, particularly on border security.
Noem will now serve as Special Envoy for the Shield of the Americas, a new Western Hemisphere security initiative that Trump said will be formally introduced in Doral, Florida.
In a statement posted on X, Noem said she looks forward to working closely with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to combat cartel activity and drug trafficking.
She emphasized that the Western Hemisphere plays a critical role in U.S. national security and said her experience at DHS will strengthen international partnerships in her new position.
Noem also thanked Trump for the appointment and cited accomplishments under her leadership, including border security measures and migrant enforcement efforts.
Who Will Lead DHS Next?
Trump announced that Markwayne Mullin will take over leadership of DHS beginning March 31.
Mullin must still be confirmed to the position. However, he can serve in an acting capacity before formal confirmation.
The appointment quickly drew reactions from lawmakers. Senator John Fetterman, D-PA, who previously called for Noem’s removal, expressed approval of Mullin stepping into the role.
What This Means Going Forward
The Kristi Noem DHS removal marks a significant leadership change at a time when the agency faces funding negotiations and policy scrutiny.
While Noem transitions to a new security-focused position, attention now turns to Mullin and whether his confirmation will move smoothly through the Senate.
The leadership shift also signals how the administration plans to approach border security and Western Hemisphere policy in the months ahead.
See her full March 5 post, here:
Thank you @POTUS Trump for appointing me as the Special Envoy for the Shield of the Americas. @SecRubio and @SecWar are incredible leaders and I look forward to working with them closely to dismantle cartels that have poured drugs into our nation and killed our children and…
— Kristi Noem (@KristiNoem) March 5, 2026
FAQ
Why was Kristi Noem removed as DHS Secretary?
She faced bipartisan criticism over funding disputes and questions surrounding a large DHS advertising contract.
What is Kristi Noem’s new role?
She will serve as Special Envoy for the Shield of the Americas, a Western Hemisphere security initiative.
Who is replacing Kristi Noem at DHS?
Senator Markwayne Mullin will serve in the role beginning March 31, pending confirmation.
As a member of the Homeland Security Committee + Ranking Member of Subcommittee on Border Security:
I’m not sure how many fellow Democrats will vote to support our colleague @SenMullin as the next DHS Secretary, but I am AYE.
— U.S. Senator John Fetterman (@SenFettermanPA) March 5, 2026
