DHS Unleashes Fury: Magazine Cover Falsely Claims Kristi Noem Runs the Agency

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) unleashed a swift and unequivocal rebuke against a provocative New York Magazine cover that sensationally implied South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem was "already running the government." In a rare public correction, the agency took to social media to brand the magazine's assertion as "incorrect" and "irresponsible," firmly stating that DHS remains under the sole leadership of Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

The controversial cover, emblazoned with a striking photograph of Noem, questioned "Who's In Charge?" and boldly declared in its subheading, "Kristi Noem isn't just auditioning for Trump's VP.

She's already running the government." This eye-catching claim immediately drew the ire of DHS, which wasted no time in setting the record straight.

"DHS is led by Secretary Mayorkas, who oversees more than 260,000 dedicated personnel working to protect the American people," the agency posted on X (formerly Twitter).

"Any suggestion otherwise is uninformed and irresponsible. While DHS values its 'all-of-government approach,' which involves crucial partnerships with state and local entities, the ultimate leadership and operational command reside squarely with Secretary Mayorkas and his team."

The magazine's article and its accompanying cover appear to tap into the intense political speculation surrounding Noem, who is widely considered a frontrunner for Donald Trump's vice-presidential running mate.

Noem has actively campaigned alongside Trump, frequently emphasizing her executive experience as governor and her staunch, often aggressive, stance on border security – a key issue for the presumptive Republican nominee. Her public profile has surged, marked by frequent media appearances and the recent release of her memoir, "No Going Back."

However, Noem's elevated status has also brought increased scrutiny.

Her book, in particular, has generated significant controversy, including a now-removed anecdote about shooting her family dog, Cricket, and claims of a meeting with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un, which she later admitted did not occur. These incidents have fueled a narrative of a politician willing to push boundaries and challenge norms, which some interpret as a strength and others as a liability.

The New York Magazine piece, while not explicitly endorsing the idea of Noem literally running the DHS, certainly played into the perception of her outsized influence within conservative circles and her perceived readiness for a national role.

The DHS's forceful clarification underscores the sensitivity surrounding agency leadership and and the potential for political narratives to distort factual governance. It serves as a stark reminder that while political ambitions soar, the day-to-day operations of crucial federal agencies remain under established command.

This incident highlights the volatile intersection of media portrayal, political ambition, and the meticulous facts of government administration.

As Kristi Noem continues her journey on the national stage, the spotlight on her actions and public image will only intensify, making such high-profile fact-checks a recurring feature of her political narrative.