Sadly, the tides are turning and not in this one top official’s favor.
A new national poll claims that a majority of U.S. voters want Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem removed from her position — even as President Donald Trump continues to defend her record and doubles down on his tough border agenda.
According to a recent Quinnipiac University survey conducted from January 29 through February 2, 58 percent of respondents said Noem should be fired, while just 34 percent believe she should remain in the role. The findings highlight deep divisions over immigration enforcement and federal authority.
The poll comes amid renewed national attention on border security as the Trump administration continues its crackdown on illegal immigration — a cornerstone of the president’s second-term agenda.
Controversy Fuels Media Backlash
Criticism of Noem intensified following two fatal law enforcement encounters in Minnesota involving federal immigration agents. Media coverage and activist commentary quickly amplified the incidents, triggering calls from Democrats and some Republicans for Noem’s resignation.
In one widely reported case, Noem initially defended the actions of federal agents, stating that the individual involved posed a threat. However, edited video clips circulated online raised questions and fueled outrage across social media and cable news.
Trump Stands Firm Behind Noem
Despite the political noise, President Trump has made it clear he is not backing down.
In a recent social media post, Trump praised Noem’s leadership, saying she has done a “really GREAT JOB.” He echoed that message during remarks at the National Prayer Breakfast, crediting his administration with historic progress.
“Why would I do that?” Trump said when asked about removing Noem. “We have the strongest border in the history of our country. We have the lowest crime numbers going back over 100 years.”
Lawmakers Split — Along Party Lines
Calls to remove Noem have come largely from Democrats, joined by Republican Senators Thom Tillis and Lisa Murkowski. Still, Republican voters overwhelmingly reject the idea.
The Quinnipiac poll shows:
- 91% of Democrats support firing Noem
- 63% of independents agree
- Only 17% of Republicans support her removal
The numbers underscore a massive partisan divide over immigration enforcement and border policy.
Noem Fires Back on Fox News
Appearing on Hannity, Noem pushed back hard, telling host Sean Hannity that the attacks are politically motivated.
“These radicals are attacking me because I’m enforcing the law,” Noem said. “I’m doing exactly what President Trump promised the American people — keeping them safe.”
She later criticized Minnesota’s Democratic leadership, arguing that local officials have refused to cooperate with federal authorities, making enforcement more dangerous and more difficult.
Polls Show Immigration Is Still a Risk Area
While Trump continues to outperform Democrats on border security, polling suggests immigration remains a complicated issue.
The Quinnipiac survey shows Trump’s approval on immigration at 38%, down from 44% in December. A separate Fox News poll gives Trump stronger marks on border security, though immigration overall remains more evenly split among voters.
Administration Signals Tactical Shift
The administration recently announced the reassignment of roughly 700 federal immigration agents from Minnesota. Trump also told NBC News that while enforcement must remain firm, agents should apply a “softer touch” when appropriate.
“You still have to be tough,” Trump said. “But you also have to be smart.”
Bottom Line
As immigration continues to dominate headlines, Kristi Noem has become a lightning rod — praised by Trump’s base, attacked by Democrats, and targeted by media critics. Whether the polling reflects real voter sentiment or political spin, one thing is clear: border security remains a defining issue for millions of Americans heading into the next election cycle.