Trump Removes Kristi Noem as Homeland Security Chief Amid Controversies

Noem faces scrutiny over financial mismanagement and congressional testimony before being reassigned as Special Envoy for The Shield of the Americas

Mar. 5, 2026 at 10:49pm

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United States President Donald Trump has unexpectedly removed Kristi Noem from her position as Secretary of Homeland Security following intense public scrutiny regarding severe financial mismanagement and highly publicized congressional hearings. Noem will now serve as the Special Envoy for The Shield of the Americas, a newly formed security initiative focused on the Western Hemisphere, while Markwayne Mullin takes over the crucial cabinet role.

Why it matters

Noem's removal highlights the Trump administration's intolerance for officials who directly implicate the president, even if they have delivered on key policy goals like border security. The case also raises questions about fiscal responsibility and accountability within the federal government.

The details

Noem faced mounting controversies during her tenure, including spending $220 million on what critics described as vanity advertisements and awarding $143 million to a ghost company. She also drew backlash for her public rhetoric, including categorizing dead Americans as domestic terrorists. The final catalyst for her removal appears to be her congressional testimony, where she struggled to navigate questions about court orders, the detention of citizens, and her alleged affair with her chief of staff.

  • On March 5, 2026, President Trump announced Noem's removal as Secretary of Homeland Security.
  • Noem's reassignment as Special Envoy for The Shield of the Americas will be effective on March 31, 2026.
  • Markwayne Mullin will take over the Homeland Security role on March 31, 2026.

The players

Kristi Noem

The former Secretary of Homeland Security who is being reassigned as the Special Envoy for The Shield of the Americas following financial controversies and congressional testimony.

Markwayne Mullin

A former U.S. Representative and Senator from Oklahoma who will be taking over the Homeland Security role, bringing extensive legislative experience and a reputation as a fierce advocate for tribal communities.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who is removing Kristi Noem from her Homeland Security position and announcing Markwayne Mullin as her replacement.

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What they’re saying

“Noem will become the Special Envoy for The Shield of the Americas. This newly formed security initiative focuses entirely on the Western Hemisphere.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States

“Markwayne Mullin brings extensive legislative experience to his new position. He served for a decade in the House of Representatives before completing three years in the Senate, representing Oklahoma. He built a reputation as a fierce advocate for tribal communities, demonstrating his 'courage,' during his Senate tenure.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States

What’s next

The president plans to announce the details of the new Shield of the Americas security initiative on Saturday at a facility in Doral, Florida.

The takeaway

Noem's removal highlights the Trump administration's intolerance for officials who directly implicate the president, even if they have delivered on key policy goals. It also raises questions about fiscal responsibility and accountability within the federal government.