House Democrats Prepare to Impeach Noem if Trump Doesn’t Act, Jeffries Warns
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced that House Democrats are preparing to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem if she is not dismissed from her position. This development represents a significant shift in how Democratic leadership is responding to the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
Details of the Impeachment Threat
In a public statement, Jeffries emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Kristi Noem should be fired immediately, or we will commence impeachment proceedings in the House of Representatives.” This statement was made alongside Democratic Whip Katherine Clark from Massachusetts and Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar from California.
Background of the Impeachment Resolution
The groundwork for this impeachment effort began with Democratic Rep. Robin Kelly of Illinois, who introduced a resolution on January 14. This introduction followed the tragic shooting of Renee Good by an ICE officer in Minneapolis. The urgency surrounding the impeachment has intensified after Border Patrol agents fatally shot Alex Pretti in Minneapolis over the weekend.
Support and Legislative Challenges
As of now, more than 160 of the 213 House Democrats have signed the impeachment resolution. A simple majority in the House is required for impeachment, meaning at least three Republicans would need to join all Democrats, a scenario that appears unlikely.
Should the House approve the articles of impeachment, the Senate presents another hurdle. A two-thirds majority is necessary for conviction and removal of an official, making the outcome uncertain.
Calls for Immediate Action
Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland, who leads the Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee, urged the committee’s Republican chairman to “immediately commence” impeachment proceedings against Noem. Raskin warned that if GOP Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio does not act, he would collaborate with other top Democrats to launch a comprehensive oversight inquiry into Noem’s actions, particularly regarding potential constitutional violations related to the recent shootings and other alleged misconduct.
Bipartisan Backlash Against DHS
The Department of Homeland Security is currently facing criticism from both sides of the aisle for its handling of the Pretti incident. In their joint message, Democratic leaders called for “dramatic changes” within the department, insisting that federal agents who violate the law must face criminal prosecution.
- Democratic Leaders’ Demands:
- Prosecution of federal agents who break the law
- Cease use of paramilitary tactics
- Redirect taxpayer funds to support everyday Americans
Senate Democrats have indicated their intention to block a funding package that includes funding for the Department of Homeland Security ahead of a critical deadline.
Noem’s Position and Internal Scrutiny
Despite the growing pressure, President Trump defended Noem on Tuesday, stating she is “doing a very good job” and will not resign. Reports suggest that Noem is under internal scrutiny within the administration but is expected to retain her position. Recently, she addressed concerns regarding the DHS’s handling of the Pretti shooting during her visit to the White House.
As the situation develops, Noem’s focus may shift from internal immigration enforcement to securing the southern border and addressing other pressing priorities.
This ongoing situation highlights the sharp political divisions surrounding immigration policy and the accountability of government officials within the current administration.
