Who's Really in Charge? A Look at Governor Noem's Potential DHS Role

Governor Kristi Noem of South Dakota is set to appear before a Senate committee for a confirmation hearing to lead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). But is she really going to be the one calling the shots? Experts think her role might be more limited than her predecessors. With over 260, 000 employees across agencies like Customs and Border Protection and FEMA, Noem would have a huge team to manage. However, when it comes to immigration, a top priority for President Trump, she's expected to follow orders from the White House. Previous DHS secretaries had a bigger say in immigration policies. Noem, on the other hand, isn't seen as a key player in planned mass deportations. Instead, that role is likely to go to Tom Homan and Stephen Miller. But if Congress has questions, Noem would be the one to answer. Noem's supporters like her tough stance on immigration, but critics argue she lacks the experience needed for the job. Some point to her handling of border security in South Dakota, while others question her qualifications. One critic even said, "Good God, no, she can’t run the state. " Despite the concerns, Noem's backers praise her commitment to border security. She's called for punishing so-called sanctuary cities and sent National Guard members to the border. But questions remain about her role in the immigration policy and her past actions, like shooting her family dog and her daughter's real estate license.