Trump Picks South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem as Homeland Security Secretary, CNN Reports
Trump's pick for Homeland Security Secretary is South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, sources tell CNN
President Donald Trump has picked South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem to be his next homeland security secretary, three sources familiar with the matter told CNN.
No official announcement has been made, but one source said the announcement could come as early as this week.
Noem, a Republican, has been a vocal supporter of Trump and his policies. She is a member of the National Rifle Association board of directors and has been endorsed by the group.
Noem is also a member of the Republican Governors Association executive committee.
She has been a vocal critic of illegal immigration and has called for increased border security.
Noem's nomination would be a major shift for the Department of Homeland Security
If confirmed by the Senate, Noem would be the first woman to lead the Department of Homeland Security.
She would also be the first governor to lead the department since its creation in 2002.
The Department of Homeland Security is responsible for protecting the United States from terrorism, natural disasters, and other threats.
The department has a budget of over $60 billion and employs over 240,000 people.
Noem's nomination is likely to face scrutiny from Democrats
Democrats are likely to scrutinize Noem's record on immigration and civil liberties.
Noem has been a vocal critic of sanctuary cities, which are cities that limit their cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
She has also called for increased border security and has supported Trump's travel ban.
Democrats are also likely to raise concerns about Noem's lack of experience in homeland security.
Noem has never worked in law enforcement or national security.
However, she has said that she is confident that she can lead the Department of Homeland Security.
"I am a strong leader, and I am confident that I can bring my skills and experience to bear to help protect our country," Noem said in a statement.