Tillis Criticizes Trump Advisers for Not Protecting President's Legacy

Republican senator says Miller and Noem are 'not taking care of this president's legacy' on immigration and border security

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Republican Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina criticized two of President Trump's top advisers, White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, saying they 'are not taking care of' Mr. Trump's 'legacy' on immigration and border security. Tillis, who is not running for reelection in 2026, said he believed Republicans could hold onto their Senate majority, but admitted it could be more difficult for them to keep a majority in the House.

Why it matters

Tillis' comments highlight the ongoing tensions within the Republican party over the direction of the party and the legacy of the Trump presidency. As a senior Republican senator, Tillis' criticism of Miller and Noem's handling of immigration issues could signal a broader rift within the party.

The details

Tillis said he has 'questions' about whether Republicans will be able to maintain control of the House after the 2026 midterm elections, citing concerns over redistricting efforts. He praised the president's national security policy concerning NATO but said he intends to 'speak bluntly' about how things are being handled in his remaining time in the Senate.

  • Tillis made the comments during an interview on 'Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan' on February 15, 2026.

The players

Thom Tillis

Republican senator from North Carolina who is not running for reelection in 2026.

Stephen Miller

White House deputy chief of staff under President Trump.

Kristi Noem

Homeland Security Secretary under President Trump.

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What they’re saying

“You've heard me talk about Stephen Miller, you know my opinion about Kristi Noem. These are people that don't look around corners and are not taking care of this president's legacy.”

— Thom Tillis, Republican Senator (Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan)

The takeaway

Tillis' criticism of Miller and Noem's handling of immigration issues under the Trump administration suggests a growing divide within the Republican party over the direction of the party and the legacy of the Trump presidency.