Homan Unsure About Noem's 'Right Leaders' Election Comments

Former border chief says DHS secretary's remarks on voting and leadership are not part of immigration enforcement.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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White House border czar Tom Homan said he didn't know what Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem meant when she recently commented about ensuring 'we have the right people voting, electing the right leaders to lead this country.' Homan, who was asked about Noem's remarks on CNN's 'State of the Union,' said that would be a question for the secretary and that he had not talked to her about the statements.

Why it matters

Noem's comments about DHS's role in election security and ensuring the 'right people' vote have raised concerns about potential voter suppression efforts. As a high-ranking Trump administration official, her remarks suggest the administration may be seeking to expand the department's influence over the electoral process, which is typically overseen by state and local officials.

The details

In a press conference in Arizona, Noem claimed that elections were under DHS's mission of 'maintaining critical infrastructure.' She said 'many people believe that it may be one of the most important things that we need to make sure we trust, is reliable, and that when it gets to Election Day, that we've been proactive to make sure that we have the right people voting, electing the right leaders to lead this country.' Homan, the former acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, said Noem's comments were not part of DHS's typical immigration enforcement responsibilities.

  • On Friday, Noem made the comments about DHS's role in election security.

The players

Tom Homan

A former acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement who now serves as the White House border czar.

Kristi Noem

The current Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

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What they’re saying

“So, what does she mean when she says 'electing the right leaders?' That's not really immigration enforcement or DHS responsibility.”

— Tom Homan, White House border czar (CNN)

“I would say that many people believe that it may be one of the most important things that we need to make sure we trust, is reliable, and that when it gets to Election Day, that we've been proactive to make sure that we have the right people voting, electing the right leaders to lead this country through the days that we have, knowing that people can trust it.”

— Kristi Noem, DHS Secretary (Press conference)

What’s next

It remains unclear if Noem plans to take any specific actions to expand DHS's role in election security or voter eligibility. Her comments have raised concerns, and it will be important to monitor if the department takes any steps that could impact the electoral process.

The takeaway

Noem's remarks about DHS ensuring 'the right people' vote and 'electing the right leaders' have sparked concerns about potential voter suppression efforts, as the department's typical responsibilities do not include overseeing elections. Homan's uncertainty about the meaning behind Noem's comments underscores the need for greater clarity on the department's plans regarding election security.