On February 2, during an appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press” with Kristen Welker, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem adeptly countered Welker’s assertions regarding a supposed “fear” of deportation among legal immigrants.
This discussion took place in the context of President Donald Trump’s campaign, which emphasized a stringent approach to illegal immigration. Following through on this commitment, Border Czar Tom Homan has been instrumental in directing ICE to conduct mass arrests and deportations of criminal illegal immigrants. Welker leveraged this anti-illegal immigration stance to inquire whether legal migrants should be concerned about the possibility of being “wrongfully detained.”
In response, Noem skillfully redirected the conversation, asserting that any such concerns among legal citizens stem from media misinformation. She stated, “If I’ve heard that expressed by people who are legal citizens of the United States, it’s because the media has perpetuated that fear. The media has suggested that this is a possibility.”
Noem further emphasized that the Trump Administration has not indicated any intention to carry out such deportations, asserting, “There’s nothing from this administration, from President Trump or from any law enforcement officials in these communities, that suggests they need to be worried about that at all.”
She concluded by dismissing Welker’s claims, highlighting that the American public supports the current administration’s approach. As she articulated, “The citizens of the United States are confident that, after four long years of a president who disregarded federal law and jeopardized their communities, there is now a leader who loves this country and is committed to enhancing community safety. The citizens residing here are elated.”
Noem emphasized that even in the predominantly Democratic city of New York, residents expressed their appreciation for immigration enforcement efforts, extending their gratitude to her and the officers involved. She remarked, “During my recent visit to New York City and several other locations, individuals passing by us on the streets expressed their thanks to our officers.”
Elaborating on this, she highlighted that these residents felt a renewed sense of security regarding illegal immigration, stating, “They were expressing their gratitude to the investigators and those responsible for apprehending dangerous criminals, acknowledging their presence for enabling them to confidently walk their children to school and conduct business, thereby reclaiming their community.”
