President-elect Donald Trump has chosen South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem to lead the Department of Homeland Security, a key position given his focus on immigration during his campaigns. Trump highlighted Noem’s support for border security, citing her sending National Guard soldiers to assist Texas during the border crisis. Noem, the first woman governor of South Dakota, has a background in politics dating back to 2006 and has been serving her second term. CNN first reported Trump’s decision to nominate her, with Trump previously considering her for a running mate position. Despite her experience and loyalty to Trump, Noem has faced criticism for controversial statements, including remarks on Native tribes benefiting from drug cartels and claims in her memoir that were later retracted. Despite these challenges, she is now set to oversee Homeland Security in the Trump administration, with Trump also appointing Stephen Miller as deputy chief of staff to focus on immigration policy. Both Miller and Tom Homan, who will work closely with Noem, do not require Senate confirmation for their positions. Noem’s nomination is expected to impact the administration’s efforts to strengthen border security and immigration enforcement as she takes on this new role.
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