During her confirmation hearing, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem addressed questions regarding the dynamic between the Department of Homeland Security and President-elect Donald Trump's selection of Tom Homan as his border czar. The discussion centered around the ultimate responsibility for border security.
Noem emphasized that the President would be in charge of the border, indicating that Tom Homan, as the border czar, would have a direct line to the President and serve as an adviser. She clarified that if confirmed, she would be responsible for the authorities and actions taken by the Department of Homeland Security.
Democratic Senator Andy Kim raised concerns about the chain of command and questioned whether Homan would be giving orders to various homeland security entities. Noem assured that she and Homan would work closely together on a daily basis, with no authorities being removed from the department.
Kim expressed reservations about potential mixed signals regarding decision-making authority, suggesting that Homan should appear before the committee if he is making significant decisions. Noem reiterated that the existing authorities within the department would remain unchanged.
The confirmation hearing highlighted the importance of clarity and coordination in border security efforts, with Governor Noem emphasizing the collaborative approach between the Department of Homeland Security and the President's appointed border czar.
