Thursday, January 29, 2026-A growing rift within the Republican Party has erupted over the leadership of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, with senators from her own party openly demanding her resignation amid fallout from controversial federal immigration enforcement actions in Minneapolis that led to the deaths of two U.S. citizens.
Sens. Thom Tillis of North Carolina and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska have publicly said Noem should step down, marking a rare and striking break within GOP ranks as debate intensifies over accountability and strategy at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). President Donald Trump, however, has rejected calls for her resignation and continues to defend her performance.
The criticism from Tillis and Murkowski reflects deep frustration among some Republicans with how Noem has handled messaging and oversight of immigration operations, especially in light of conflicting accounts of events in Minnesota and concerns that aggressive enforcement has harmed public trust.
Tillis said he has lost confidence in Noem’s leadership, while Murkowski emphasized that she believes the secretary must be accountable for “chaos and tragedy” that critics say stem from policy execution. Their statements have come alongside growing pressure from Democratic lawmakers who argue Noem’s approach to enforcement and public communication is unacceptable.
The situation has escalated into a broader political confrontation, with House Democrats threatening impeachment if Noem is not removed and some Republicans quietly pushing for increased oversight of DHS operations.
While Trump’s support has shielded Noem from immediate removal, the split within his own party signals rising unease ahead of the 2026 election cycle, especially as immigration enforcement becomes an increasingly contentious issue. With bipartisan calls for accountability now front and center in Washington, Noem’s future as homeland security chief is uncertain amid intensifying debate over enforcement, public safety, and political consequences.
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