Why is Kristi Noem Defending ICE Actions and Blaming Biden's Border Policy?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a recent briefing, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defended ICE's operations amid rising protests, insisting they follow established protocols. She criticized the Biden administration for the current immigration situation and emphasized the legality of enforcement actions. Her comments shed light on the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement and the responses from various state leaders.
Key Takeaways
- Noem supports ICE enforcement actions as legal.
- She attributes the immigration crisis to the Biden administration.
- ICE operations are conducted under established protocols.
- She encourages cooperation from state leaders.
- ICE officers are trained to handle dangerous situations.
Washington, Jan 16 (NationPress) The US Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, has defended the actions of federal immigration enforcement in Minneapolis and other urban areas, asserting that officers were operating "within the law" and adhering to established protocols, even in the face of rising protests and criticism regarding the previous administration's mass deportation agenda.
In a press briefing outside the White House following a television segment, Noem stated that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers were acting legally and had consistently won court challenges.
"Every action taken by our ICE officers is legal and follows long-standing protocols that this and previous administrations have employed," she emphasized.
Addressing the unrest in Minneapolis, Noem acknowledged that she had discussed the potential invocation of the Insurrection Act with President Donald Trump, but did not confirm whether he would take that step.
She indicated that operations in Minnesota mirrored prior deportation actions conducted in other states.
"We had a markedly different response due to leaders cooperating with us," Noem noted, referencing cooperation from Louisiana and Florida.
"We hope that Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota will take cues from Louisiana's Governor Jeff Landry and Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis to collaborate with us for effective solutions," she said.
When asked about reports of Americans being requested to show proof of citizenship on the streets, Noem dismissed claims of widespread checks, asserting that enforcement actions remained focused.
"We are conducting targeted enforcement," she clarified.
"If we are executing an operation, we may inquire about individuals surrounding our targets, asking who they are and their purpose there."
She further noted that individuals found violating federal law "will be detained until we complete the necessary processes."
On the safety of federal personnel, Noem asserted that officers involved in deportation operations are "highly trained and skilled", often pursuing dangerous suspects.
"Frequently, they target murderers, gang members, and terrorists residing illegally in our country," she added.
The Secretary of Homeland Security also refrained from sharing specifics about US surveillance of oil-carrying ships associated with Venezuela, citing operational confidentiality.
She stated that the administration was monitoring what she termed a "shadow fleet" engaged in transporting unauthorized oil to bypass sanctions.
"I take pride in our Coast Guard's collaboration with the Department of Defense to undertake unprecedented actions," Noem said, outlining efforts to bring such vessels under US jurisdiction.
She regularly reviews videos of Department of Homeland Security operations and keeps President Trump updated, pointing out that the department "is highly active" with domestic enforcement and maritime missions.
Noem attributed the current immigration crisis to the actions of the previous administration.
"The only reason we find ourselves in this situation is that the Biden administration permitted 20 million people to enter this country unvetted," she stated, cautioning against the dangers posed by criminal gangs and terrorist threats taking advantage of what she described as an "open border."
Point of View
It is crucial to present a balanced view of the immigration enforcement actions led by Secretary Kristi Noem. The ongoing dialogue illustrates the complexities of immigration policy in the U.S., highlighting the differing approaches of state leaders and the federal government. This reflects broader societal concerns regarding safety, legality, and humanitarian considerations.
NationPress
17/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Kristi Noem say about ICE operations?
Kristi Noem defended ICE operations, stating they are conducted legally and follow established protocols.
How does Noem respond to criticism of ICE?
She insists that ICE actions are legal and have been validated by court challenges.
What did she say about the unrest in Minneapolis?
Noem acknowledged the unrest and discussed the potential use of the Insurrection Act with President Trump.
What is Noem's stance on the Biden administration's immigration policy?
She blames the Biden administration for the current immigration crisis, claiming it allowed millions to enter unvetted.
How does Noem characterize the ICE officers?
She describes them as highly trained and skilled, often targeting dangerous criminals.
