DHS Faces Scrutiny Over Hiring of Former Labor Aide Rollins

Internal communications reveal concerns about Rollins's past social media activity

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently hired Ryan Rollins, a former aide at the Department of Labor, whose past social media posts have drawn scrutiny, according to reporting by The New York Times. Internal communications, including emails and Microsoft Teams conversations, reveal concerns among Rollins's former colleagues at the Labor Department regarding his online activity.

Why it matters

Rollins's appointment comes as the Biden administration faces ongoing challenges related to border security and immigration policy. The nature of Rollins's past social media posts has prompted questions about his suitability for a role within DHS, an agency responsible for national security.

The details

Rollins previously worked as a communications specialist within the Labor Department, a position that required him to engage with the public and represent the department's policies. His transition to DHS signals a shift in focus for the aide, placing him within an agency with a significantly different mandate. The timing of Rollins's hiring coincides with a period of heightened political debate surrounding immigration and border control.

  • The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently hired Ryan Rollins.
  • Rollins previously worked as a communications specialist within the Labor Department.

The players

Ryan Rollins

A former aide at the Department of Labor who was recently hired by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The U.S. government agency responsible for national security, including border security and immigration policy.

Department of Labor

The U.S. government agency responsible for labor-related policies and regulations.

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What’s next

As of February 11, 2026, DHS has not publicly addressed the concerns raised regarding Rollins's prior social media posts. The agency has not announced any internal review of the hiring process, and Rollins has not issued a public statement regarding the matter.

The takeaway

The hiring of Rollins by DHS has raised concerns about the vetting process and the potential implications of his past social media activity on his ability to effectively represent the agency's policies and priorities. This case highlights the need for thorough background checks and a careful consideration of an individual's public persona when making high-profile government appointments.