Kristi Noem: ‘Nobody’s Above the Law—We Will Enforce Immigration Laws’

Newly confirmed Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem appeared on The Ingraham Angle to discuss her department’s plan for tackling illegal immigration, addressing sanctuary cities, and enforcing immigration laws under President Trump’s administration. Noem emphasized the urgent need to ramp up deportations and highlighted ongoing operations targeting dangerous criminal aliens, many of whom have been arrested since Trump took office.

Laura began by spotlighting recent arrests of convicted felons, including a child rapist and a convicted murderer, asking Noem how soon Guantanamo Bay (Gitmo) would be ready to house these dangerous individuals. “It won’t take very long at all,” Noem responded confidently. She explained that facilities are already being set up and that the space is available. “We just have to get to work,” she added.

Restoring Safety in Communities

When asked about blue city officials who oppose federal immigration enforcement, Noem did not mince words. She described firsthand encounters with grateful citizens in New York City who appreciated federal efforts to remove dangerous criminals from their neighborhoods. “It was amazing to me,” she said, recalling how residents expressed relief. “They were walking their kids to school at 7:00 in the morning. I can’t imagine doing that when these drug dealers and weapons dealers and rapists and murderers were on the streets.”

Laura pressed Noem on the scale of the deportation challenge, noting that more than 15 million illegal immigrants remain in the country. Noem acknowledged the daunting task but expressed optimism, citing increased support from retired law enforcement officers inspired by Trump’s leadership. “We’ve got a lot of folks coming out of retirement that want to be a part of these task forces,” she said.

Confronting Sanctuary Cities

The discussion then turned to the issue of sanctuary cities, with Laura asking whether Noem’s department would hold local officials accountable if they interfered with federal immigration enforcement. Noem confirmed that enforcement operations would continue, despite resistance from local leaders. “The federal government has the authority to go in and make their communities safer, especially those that are perpetuating danger,” she stated.

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However, Noem also emphasized that sanctuary city policies have created additional obstacles. “Their laws have caused us problems,” she explained. “They are limiting some of the tools we want in our toolbox.” Despite these challenges, she remained steadfast in her commitment to enforce federal immigration law and expose the actions of non-compliant officials. “We’re going to continue to go in, use our operations, and tell our story to the American people,” Noem said, underscoring the importance of public awareness.

When Laura pressed further, asking if the administration would pursue direct repercussions against individual mayors who obstruct federal enforcement, Noem was clear. “Nobody’s above the law,” she declared. However, she noted that decisions on specific actions would come from President Trump. “I don’t sit here and make up a decision on what I do. I follow the law… and he’s going to give us direction on how we’re going to go after these individuals.”

Border Security and Future Plans

Noem also addressed concerns about border security, including fears that resources might be diverted from the northern border to focus on the southern border. During a recent visit to Vermont and the Canadian border, she assured residents that both borders would remain secure. “Seal it all down,” Laura remarked, acknowledging the magnitude of Noem’s task.

In closing, Laura commended Noem’s efforts and promised to closely follow her progress. With a clear mandate from President Trump and a firm resolve, Noem left viewers with the message that under her leadership, DHS will prioritize safety, accountability, and strict enforcement of immigration laws.

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