In her inaugural address to department employees, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem drew parallels between her upbringing on a farm and her new role in government. Noem recounted a formative experience from her youth when she and her father were building a fence, emphasizing the importance of anticipating needs and thinking ahead.
She highlighted the relevance of this lesson to the work of the Department of Homeland Security, stressing the need to prepare proactively and stay ahead of potential challenges. Noem expressed her commitment to leading by example and working collaboratively with her team to fulfill the department's mission.
With a background in business and prior experience as the governor of South Dakota, Noem underscored the value of collective problem-solving and teamwork in navigating complex situations. She emphasized the department's crucial role in safeguarding the American homeland and pledged to leverage all legal authorities to protect the country.
Noem's proactive approach to seeking the homeland security job, including direct engagement with President Donald Trump, reflects her recognition of the significance of border security in the current administration's priorities. She affirmed the department's role as the first line of defense for the nation and reiterated the commitment to upholding the safety and security of all Americans.
