New Jersey Senator Reverses Support, Calls for Homeland Security Secretary’s Resignation
After a controversial Minneapolis law enforcement event, New Jersey Senator Andy Kim has openly called for Kristi Noem’s immediate resignation as Secretary of Homeland Security. Kim was one of seven Democrats who confirmed Noem last year. But subsequent events have made him admit that supporting her was a “mistake.”
Following a Saturday morning Border Patrol shooting that killed 37-year-old Alex Pretti, the resignation was requested. Noem claimed Pretti was involved in “domestic terrorism,” but he was unarmed during the shooting. The Homeland Security Secretary was criticized for his handling of the situation as video revealed Pretti clutching merely a cellphone.
Senator Kim said, “It was a terrible vote,” in a Monday WHYY Studio 2 interview. It was wrong.” He said some Homeland Security Committee members, including himself, hoped voting for Noem would allow “open communication” with the Secretary. Kim acknowledged that those hopes were unrealized and stressed the need for agency-wide accountability.
Kim has publicly criticized senior officials for their harmful Homeland Security policy. He called Stephen Miller “one of the most dangerous people in our country” for influencing agency and policy decisions.
On social media, the Senator called Noem “unfit to serve” and noted fundamental faults in the administration beyond her leadership. He and New Jersey Senator Cory Booker will oppose a Department of Homeland Security budget measure, citing that the agency needs more control before receiving taxpayer monies. Booker said he wouldn’t fund DHS or ICE until accountability is improved.
Despite mounting bipartisan opposition, former President Donald Trump said Noem is doing well and has no intentions to leave. The differing replies show a deepening political rift over US law enforcement and security.
The Pretti shooting and political ramifications have escalated calls for DHS transparency and accountability. Lawmakers are keenly following the agency’s actions, with many suggesting leadership changes to restore public trust and safeguard law enforcement protocol.
The Homeland Security Department has continual challenges, as shown by the Minneapolis incidents and state and federal reactions. Constituents and policymakers are seeking a more responsible and accountable national security posture as the debate continues.
Sources:
- Official statements from Senator Andy Kim (D-N.J.)
- WHYY Studio 2 Interview with Senator Andy Kim
- Statements from Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.)
- Official Department of Homeland Security reports
- Minneapolis law enforcement public records
