Democratic Leaders Call for Accountability Following Noem's Dismissal: 'Murders Occurred on Her Watch'
Calls for accountability erupted following Kristi Noem's ousting as Homeland Security secretary, with Democratic lawmakers demanding thorough investigations and potential impeachment. They argue that her departure does not absolve her of the serious allegations tied to her time in office.
Rep. Jamie Raskin from Maryland emphasized the need for a "reckoning," pointing to civil rights violations and fatalities that occurred under Noem's leadership. "We need a reckoning with the fact that there were murders that took place under her watch," Raskin stated, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Raskin, who could lead the House Judiciary Committee if Democrats reclaim the majority in November, insisted that the Department of Homeland Security required a "cleaning of house" and a rejection of the "terrible policies of corruption, cover-up, lying and authoritarian violence against citizens and immigrants."
During a recent session of questioning by the House Judiciary Committee, Raskin accused Noem of orchestrating a "cover-up" concerning two fatal shootings involving federal agents in Minneapolis earlier this year. He criticized her for labeling victims Renee Good and Alex Pretti as "domestic terrorists" shortly after the incidents.
Rep. Ted Lieu of California echoed Raskin's sentiments, asserting that further investigations into Noem's actions were necessary. Meanwhile, Sen. Richard Blumenthal from Connecticut announced plans to pursue a perjury investigation regarding Noem's testimony during the hearing, where she denied that Corey Lewandowski, a key adviser, had any involvement in approving DHS contracts.
Blumenthal noted that evidence indicated Lewandowski had "personally approved contracts," asserting that Noem's dismissal did not shield her from scrutiny. "Her firing doesn't absolve her or relieve her of potential liability for perjury," he remarked.
Other Democrats are advocating for more severe repercussions. Rep. Delia Ramirez of Illinois argued for Noem's impeachment to prevent her from holding office again, while Illinois Governor JB Pritzker stated, "Just because you're gone don't think you just get to walk away." California Governor Gavin Newsom added that "firing her is not enough."
This backlash unfolds as Democrats maintain their opposition to a DHS funding bill unless the administration agrees to impose limits on immigration enforcement. The House passed a funding measure recently, but Democratic leaders asserted that Noem's replacement would not alter their stance. "A change in personnel is not sufficient; we need a change in policy," declared House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
