Inland Empire Lawmakers Demand Homeland Security Chief's Resignation

Congressmembers call for Kristi Noem to step down or be removed from office over immigration policies.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 6:07pm

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Several Democratic members of Congress from California's Inland Empire region held a news conference on Wednesday calling for the resignation or removal of U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. The lawmakers, including Reps. Pete Aguilar, Mark Takano, and Raul Ruiz, criticized Noem's leadership and handling of federal immigration enforcement policies.

Why it matters

Noem's tenure as Homeland Security secretary has been controversial, with critics accusing her of pursuing hardline immigration policies that have drawn condemnation from immigrant advocates and some members of Congress. The calls for her resignation or removal add to the political pressure she faces.

The details

During the news conference, the Inland Empire Congress members demanded that Noem either resign or be fired or impeached. They also called for reforms to federal immigration enforcement practices. The lawmakers described Noem as the "most unqualified and inept cabinet secretary" in the current administration.

  • The news conference was held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.

The players

Kristi Noem

The current U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, whose leadership and immigration policies have drawn criticism from some members of Congress.

Pete Aguilar

A Democratic member of Congress representing California's 31st district in the Inland Empire region.

Mark Takano

A Democratic member of Congress representing California's 41st district in the Inland Empire region.

Raul Ruiz

A Democratic member of Congress representing California's 36th district in the Inland Empire region.

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What they’re saying

“Kristi Noem is the most unqualified and inept cabinet secretary that we have, and that's saying a lot with this group.”

— Unspecified (wn.com)

The takeaway

The calls for Noem's resignation or removal reflect the ongoing political tensions over immigration policy and the leadership of the Department of Homeland Security under the current administration.