President-elect Donald Trump is expected to appoint South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem as Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), according to two sources who spoke with CNN.

Noem, a staunch ally of Trump, had been a potential candidate for his running mate before being considered for this cabinet role overseeing national security and border protection.

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem discusses the drug cartel presence in the state’s tribal lands during press conference on Friday, May 17, 2024, at the South Dakota State Capitol in Pierre, South Dakota.

As governor, Noem, 52, is currently serving her second term and has been recognized for her alignment with Trump’s “America First” agenda.

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If officially announced, Noem would take charge of DHS, a department tasked with managing U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)—two agencies central to Trump’s commitment to securing the U.S. border and enforcing immigration laws.

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The potential appointment of Noem to DHS comes amid Trump’s efforts to assemble a leadership team focused on fulfilling key campaign promises, particularly in the area of border security.

Trump’s administration has made immigration a cornerstone of its platform, with Noem’s expected role reinforcing these priorities.

DHS’s responsibilities also extend to overseeing the U.S. Secret Service and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), giving Noem a significant role in national security matters.

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If confirmed as DHS Secretary, Noem would work alongside Tom Homan, Trump’s newly appointed “border czar,” and Stephen Miller, who is set to serve as White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy with a focus on immigration initiatives.

Homan, a former acting director of ICE under Trump’s previous administration, has been tasked with overseeing enhanced border security and coordinating mass deportation efforts targeting undocumented migrants in the U.S.

Miller, known as a principal architect of Trump’s immigration policies during his first term, is expected to continue advising on restrictive immigration measures and other security-focused initiatives.

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His advisory role within the administration places him in close alignment with Noem’s potential responsibilities at DHS, underscoring the administration’s commitment to tightening immigration controls.

The official announcement of Noem’s appointment had not been made as of early Tuesday, leaving the final confirmation pending.

Trump’s cabinet picks thus far indicate a focused approach on security and immigration, key themes in his campaign and central to his administration’s agenda for the upcoming term.

Noem’s leadership at DHS, if confirmed, would be pivotal in implementing Trump’s vision for national security and immigration policy.

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