Kristi Noem’s Unexpected Insights on Border Crisis and Immigration Challenges

Kristi Noem appeared on “Face the Nation” to discuss the multifaceted border crisis and the leadership updates in ICE that aim to restore efficiency at the agency.

Quick Takes

Appointment of Todd Lyons as Acting ICE Director and Madison Sheahan as Deputy Director
Implementation of polygraph tests for identifying information leakers
Success in reducing fentanyl trafficking by 75% over six months
Revival of migrant family detention policy for enhanced border security

Revamping Leadership at ICE

In a decisive move, Secretary Kristi Noem appointed Todd Lyons as Acting ICE Director and Madison Sheahan as Deputy Director of ICE. This leadership revamp aims to restore accountability and results in an agency criticized for inefficiencies under the Biden Administration. Lyons and Sheahan are tasked with leading the mission to target, arrest, and deport illegal aliens.

Lyons, a veteran of the agency, holds extensive experience, having served in significant roles such as Executive Associate Director of ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations and Field Office Director in Boston. His federal service began in the United States Air Force, later transitioning to an Immigration Enforcement Agent role. Meanwhile, Sheahan offers a strong administrative background, previously managing vast resources as Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

Addressing Information Leaks

Secretary Noem identified and plans to prosecute two individuals accused of leaking enforcement operation details. The leaks reportedly hindered timely deportations and exposed vulnerabilities in planned operations. As part of ensuring integrity and security, the administration plans to enhance the use of polygraph exams for identifying internal information leakers within DHS.

Polygraph testing is common among federal agencies for personnel vetting in national security roles. Noem’s strategy includes prosecuting leakers, with identified individuals facing up to 10 years in federal prison. Such rigorous measures are a testament to the administration’s commitment to maintaining the confidentiality and effectiveness of its operations.

Efforts Against Drug and Human Trafficking

Another critical issue addressed is the successful reduction in fentanyl trafficking at the southern border, allegedly down 75% over the past six months. “It really is about fentanyl. It really is,” emphasized Secretary Noem. Collaboration with Mexico and Canada, especially with Canada providing criminal background information, is pivotal in these efforts. The administration is also increasing military presence along the border, potentially reaching 9,000 personnel, ensuring robust border security.

The DHS has revived the policy of detaining migrant families as part of its strategy to combat illegal immigration, emphasizing families’ options to self-deport. With 22 individuals on the terrorist watch list and nearly 700 gang members deported recently, Noem underscores the administration’s resolve to tackle border security challenges.