John Oliver Blasts 'ICE Barbie' Kristi Noem in Scathing Takedown

The late-night host criticized the Homeland Security Secretary's lack of experience, social media obsession, and questionable actions.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In the return of his show Last Week Tonight, John Oliver harshly criticized Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, dubbing her 'ICE Barbie' and accusing her of prioritizing social media over actual policy results. Oliver highlighted Noem's lack of relevant experience, her history of wearing decorative military uniforms, and her role in the controversial ICE occupation of multiple U.S. cities, including an incident where two Minneapolis citizens were killed by ICE agents.

Why it matters

Noem's leadership of DHS has come under increasing scrutiny, with growing public backlash against ICE's actions. Oliver's scathing takedown reflects broader concerns about Noem's qualifications and the agency's conduct under her watch, raising questions about the future of ICE.

The details

Oliver began by reminding viewers of Noem's past controversies, including her admission in her memoir of shooting her own dog, which allegedly destroyed her chances of becoming Trump's running mate in 2024. He then criticized Noem's lack of experience in law enforcement or homeland security, noting that as governor of South Dakota, she was known as a 'relentless promoter' who often dressed up in various costumes for social media. Oliver played a montage of Noem's campaign ads where she portrayed different professions, mocking her unconvincing acting. The host also highlighted Noem's tendency to have cameras with her at all times, accusing her of prioritizing social media over actual policy results. Oliver cited the case of two peaceful anti-ICE protesters in Chicago who were arrested without charges, suggesting the arrests were for a 'photo op' for Noem.

  • In January 2026, two Minneapolis citizens were killed by ICE agents, sparking major protests nationwide.
  • In May 2024, Democratic congressman Eric Swalwell of California criticized Noem's use of costumes, saying 'I don't need to wear costumes to show how tough I am.'

The players

John Oliver

The host of the HBO show Last Week Tonight, who returned to TV with a scathing critique of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

Kristi Noem

The current U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, who has been criticized for her lack of experience, social media obsession, and questionable actions as head of the agency.

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic congressman from California who criticized Noem's use of costumes in 2024, saying 'I don't need to wear costumes to show how tough I am.'

Kyle Frankovich

A peaceful anti-ICE protester in Chicago who was arrested without charges in October, suggesting the arrest was for a 'photo op' for Noem.

Juan Munoz

A peaceful anti-ICE protester in Chicago who was arrested without charges in October, suggesting the arrest was for a 'photo op' for Noem.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I don't need to wear costumes to show how tough I am.”

— Eric Swalwell, Democratic congressman from California (thedailybeast.com)

The takeaway

Oliver's scathing critique of Noem's leadership of the Department of Homeland Security reflects growing public concerns about the agency's conduct and the qualifications of its leadership. The case highlights the need for greater accountability and transparency within DHS, as well as a reevaluation of ICE's role and methods.