WASHINGTON, D.C. — Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem is facing intense scrutiny this week following a series of controversial policy shifts and a high-profile reversal regarding the TSA PreCheck program. As of February 24 2026, the former South Dakota Governor remains at the center of a political firestorm involving agency staffing, immigration enforcement, and a partial government shutdown.
TSA PreCheck Reversal and Global Entry Suspension
In a major walk-back on February 23 2026, the DHS announced it would no longer move forward with a plan to suspend the TSA PreCheck program. The initial proposal, reportedly spearheaded by Noem and adviser Corey Lewandowski, sparked immediate public outcry and prompted a direct intervention from the White House. While PreCheck will remain operational, the agency confirmed that the Global Entry program remains paused as the department grapples with a partial shutdown and funding disputes with Congressional Democrats.
Leadership Turmoil and Staffing Exodus
Since taking office as the 8th Secretary of Homeland Security in 2025, Noem has aggressively restructured the department. Reports indicate a “staffing exodus” following the ousting of several high-level career officials. Critics argue that Noem’s management style has turned the agency into a “disaster zone,” while supporters maintain she is essential to implementing President Trump’s “law and order” agenda. Recent reports also surfaced regarding the department’s request for a luxury jet intended for deportations and official travel, further fueling debate over agency spending.
Immigration and Election Integrity Controversy
Secretary Noem has also come under fire for recent public statements. Fact-checkers have challenged her claims regarding the agency’s role in elections and a widely circulated anecdote about ICE deporting a “cannibal,” which investigators labeled as unsubstantiated. Additionally, Noem recently issued a letter to tribal leaders clarifying that ICE does not target Native Americans, following concerns raised by federally recognized tribes.
Political Impact and Future Outlook
The ongoing drama at DHS has led to a rise in Noem’s national unfavorability ratings. In her home state of South Dakota, political analysts are closely watching the fallout as rumors circulate regarding her potential future in the U.S. Senate. For now, Noem remains a central figure in the administration, expected to attend President Trump’s State of the Union address tonight at 9:00 p.m. ET, where immigration and border security are anticipated to be primary themes.
As the department implements emergency measures to conserve resources during the funding impasse, Noem has restricted FEMA disaster aid for non-emergency activities, a move she attributes to the “Democrats’ shutdown.”