Homeland Security Chief Noem Sparks Outrage Over Voting Comments

Critics say Noem's remarks about ensuring 'the right people' vote are 'saying the quiet part out loud'.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem sparked a firestorm of criticism over the weekend after making comments about ensuring 'the right people' vote in elections. Noem's remarks, made during a press event, were widely condemned as undemocratic and an attempt to interfere in the electoral process.

Why it matters

Noem's comments raise serious concerns about potential efforts to restrict voting access and manipulate election outcomes, which threatens the integrity of American democracy. As a high-ranking government official, her words carry significant weight and have the potential to undermine public trust in free and fair elections.

The details

During a press event on Saturday, Noem said, 'When it gets to Election Day, we've been proactive to make sure that we have the right people voting, electing the right leaders to lead this country.' This statement was immediately criticized by political observers and commentators across the ideological spectrum, who accused Noem of trying to determine who should be allowed to vote.

  • Noem made the controversial comments during a press event on Saturday, February 12, 2026.

The players

Kristi Noem

The U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, who made the controversial comments about ensuring 'the right people' vote.

Jonathan Karl

The ABC News Chief Washington Correspondent, who described Noem's comments as 'extraordinary'.

David Axelrod

A former Obama administration insider, who said Noem will remain in her position to ensure 'the right leaders' win.

Joe Walsh

A former Republican congressman, who condemned Noem's 'un-American' comments.

Daniel Goldman

A Democratic congressman, who said Noem's remarks show an intention to 'steal the election'.

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What they’re saying

“When it gets to Election Day, we've been proactive to make sure that we have the right people voting, electing the right leaders to lead this country.”

— Kristi Noem, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security (dnyuz.com)

“Extraordinary.”

— Jonathan Karl, ABC News Chief Washington Correspondent (dnyuz.com)

“They are saying the usually quiet part quite openly.”

— Ekklesia Network (dnyuz.com)

“THIS is why Noem will remain in place, despite her flagrant, corrupt mismanagement of the DHS, at least through the midterm elections.”

— David Axelrod, Former Obama administration insider (dnyuz.com)

“To make sure the 'right people' are voting? Who the f— are the 'right people?' And it's not government's job to choose our leaders. It's the American people's job. I served in Congress with Kristi Noem. It's not at all surprising to hear her spew this un-American s—.”

— Joe Walsh, Former Republican congressman (dnyuz.com)

What’s next

Noem's comments are likely to face intense scrutiny and criticism from both Democrats and Republicans, as they raise serious concerns about potential efforts to undermine free and fair elections. Congressional oversight hearings and investigations into the Department of Homeland Security's role in election security may be forthcoming.

The takeaway

Noem's remarks about ensuring 'the right people' vote are a troubling indication of an anti-democratic mindset that threatens the foundations of American democracy. Her position of power makes these comments all the more alarming, as they suggest a willingness to interfere in the electoral process to achieve desired political outcomes.