• Kristi Noem emphasizes a strict immigration policy as Trump's nominee for Homeland Security.
• She promises to end the CBP One app and reinstate the "Remain in Mexico" policy.
• Noem plans to ensure disaster relief is provided without political bias.
• She intends to reform the Secret Service in light of recent security threats.

In a pivotal confirmation hearing, Kristi Noem, the South Dakota governor and President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for Secretary of Homeland Security, showcased her commitment to enforcing strict measures on immigration and disaster management. Noem, aiming to replace outgoing Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, addressed the Senate on Friday, articulating her unwavering support for Trump's immigration agenda while promising to implement comprehensive reforms within the department.

During the hearing, Noem stated her intention to carry out a significant crackdown on illegal immigration, describing the US-Mexico border as a "war zone". She asserted, "We must be vigilant and proactive and innovative to protect the homeland," as she outlined her plans to secure the borders against illegal trafficking and unauthorized migration. In particular, she vowed to abolish the CBP One mobile app, which is currently mandated for asylum applications, and to reinstate the "Remain in Mexico" policy, compelling asylum-seekers to await their legal hearings south of the border.

Noem also addressed the issue of disaster relief, emphasizing that her guidance of the Department of Homeland Security will focus on delivering assistance impartially: "Under my leadership, there will be no political bias to how disaster relief is delivered to the American people." She criticized the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), claiming that some employees fail to respond effectively during crises, and she proposed a "blueprint" for future disaster management.

The hearing also delved into the future of the cybersecurity and infrastructure security agency (CISA), with Noem acknowledging criticisms from her Republican colleagues regarding its responsibilities in election oversight. She conveyed her willingness to collaborate with lawmakers like Senator Ron Johnson to refocus the agency's priorities.

Lastly, responding to inquiries about the Secret Service, which has faced scrutiny following recent incidents affecting Trump's safety, Noem stated that the agency is in dire need of reform. She declared her goal to realign its objectives to bolster essential security protocol, arguing, "The Secret Service is in need of dramatic reforms." During her testimony, it was also noted that Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., indicated Sean Curran might be appointed as the new director of the Secret Service.

Noem's confirmation hearing illustrates her alignment with Trump's policies, signaling a continuation of his legacy concerning immigration and national security. As she moves forward, her capacity to navigate political challenges within the Senate will be critical to her confirmation as the next Secretary of Homeland Security.

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