Larson Statement on the Firing of U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem

Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement on President Trump’s firing of U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. The President’s replacement of Secretary Noem comes two months after Larson and Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) first filed articles of impeachment against her. 

“Two months after we filed articles of impeachment against Secretary Noem, I am glad to see her days finally come to an end at the Department of Homeland Security,” said Larson. “On her watch, ICE was transformed into Donald Trump’s personal army, as federal agents executed citizens in our streets, snatched mothers from their children in our communities, and threatened peaceful protesters across the country. Make no mistake – replacing Kristi Noem is only the beginning. While she has been dismissed, she must still be held accountable. She is not above the law, nor is any future Secretary of Homeland Security.” 

Ahead of tonight’s expected vote in the House to approve more funding for the Department of Homeland Security, Larson cosponsored amendments to redirect their $75 billion ICE slush fund to restoring the Republican Budget’s cut to Medicaid and block federal law enforcement from being deployed at polling places. Both amendments were blocked from advancing to a full House vote by Republicans on the Rules Committee last night. 

Larson has called for disbanding ICE and is championing legislation in Congress to require federal agents to identify themselves; bar ICE raids in schools, hospitals, courthouses, and places of worship; ban abusive tactics including chokeholds; and redirect ICE funding from the Republican budget to lower health care premiums and expand affordable housing.