Amid the devastating wildfires in California, the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF), the largest firefighter union in North America, has broken its tradition of political neutrality to endorse South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem for the position of Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. This endorsement marks a significant shift for the IAFF, which had refrained from taking political stances during the 2024 election cycle.
In a letter addressed to Senators Rand Paul and Gary Peters, the IAFF General President Edward Kelly expressed the union's support for Governor Noem's nomination by President Trump. Kelly highlighted Noem's experience as a Governor, emphasizing her understanding of emergency management and the critical role of government response in times of crises, whether natural or man-made.
The IAFF's endorsement of Noem is particularly noteworthy as multiple fires continue to ravage Los Angeles County, resulting in tragic fatalities, extensive damage, and the evacuation of over 100,000 residents. The union's backing of Noem underscores her alignment with public safety priorities and her ability to garner broad support from law enforcement unions.
With a membership of 353,000 firefighters who serve over 85% of communities in the U.S. and Canada, the IAFF plays a crucial role in safeguarding public safety. The union's endorsement of Governor Noem signals a willingness to collaborate with the Department of Homeland Security under her leadership in addressing future challenges and emergencies.
The Department of Homeland Security, which Governor Noem is nominated to lead, oversees various national security and law enforcement agencies, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the U.S. Secret Service, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
