Fiery DHS Spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin to Leave Trump Administration

Outspoken DHS spokeswoman known for defending ICE and warning of illegal immigration threats to depart next week

Feb. 19, 2026 at 1:39am

Tricia McLaughlin, the outspoken spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under Secretary Kristi Noem, has reportedly resigned. McLaughlin has been a fierce defender of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and a prominent voice warning of the dangers posed by illegal aliens. Her departure is expected to leave a hole in the department's communications at a crucial time amid a funding lapse for the agency as Republicans and Democrats negotiate potential reforms to ICE and Customs and Border Protection.

Why it matters

McLaughlin's departure represents a significant shift in the Trump administration's communications strategy on immigration enforcement and border security issues. As a vocal supporter of the administration's controversial tactics, her exit could signal a change in tone or approach from DHS as it navigates an uncertain political landscape.

The details

According to the report, McLaughlin originally planned to leave the administration in December but extended her time after the shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti. Her fiery press releases, which were skilled at countering left-wing narratives and misinformation, will be missed by supporters of the administration's immigration policies.

  • McLaughlin is expected to inform colleagues on Tuesday about her plans to depart DHS next week.
  • McLaughlin originally planned to leave the administration in December but extended her time after the shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti.

The players

Tricia McLaughlin

The outspoken spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under Secretary Kristi Noem, known for her fierce defense of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and warnings about the dangers of illegal immigration.

Kristi Noem

The Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security under the Trump administration.

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What’s next

The report states that DHS did not immediately respond to a request for comment about who will take over communications after McLaughlin's departure.

The takeaway

McLaughlin's exit from the Trump administration's DHS could signal a shift in the department's communications strategy on immigration enforcement and border security issues, as she was known for her vocal support of the administration's controversial tactics in these areas.