Additional Coverage:
- ICE Barbie Kristi Noem mocked for aiming gun at officers head in ridiculous photo op (irishstar.com)
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is facing criticism after posting a video of herself participating in an immigration raid. The 20-second video, posted on X, shows Noem wearing an ICE vest and holding a rifle while accompanying immigration officers. She praises the officers for “making America safe.”
The video sparked immediate backlash online, with many expressing concern over Noem’s handling of the firearm. Military reporter Alex Horton pointed out that Noem’s rifle, which appeared to have a round chambered, was pointed directly at another officer’s face, demonstrating poor gun safety.
Numerous commenters echoed this concern. Some commenters also criticized Noem’s participation in the raid as a publicity stunt, calling it “ridiculous” and “cringe.”
Even those who support stricter immigration enforcement questioned Noem’s approach.
Several Democratic lawmakers also weighed in. Sen.
Martin Heinrich of New Mexico and Sen. Ruben Gallego of Arizona both criticized the video, with Gallego adding a call to “stop deporting people without due process.”
The video comes as the Trump administration’s immigration policies, including recent deportations, face legal challenges and widespread criticism.