A source with knowledge of the decision has reportedly now confirmed that President-elect Trump has chosen South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem (R) to serve as the head of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Noem was previously considered as a potential running mate for Trump; however, her candidacy was abandoned following the publication of her autobiography, in which she disclosed that she had slain a “untrainable” dog.
Rather, the Republican governor will be appointed to oversee the expansive agency responsible for safeguarding the United States from terrorist attacks, securing the borders, and enforcing U.S. immigration law.
Additionally, Trump has assigned the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) the responsibility of conducting the “largest deportation operation in American history.”
The selection of Noem is the most recent indication of Trump’s determination to implement a strict immigration policy, which he has stated will result in the largest deportation in U.S. history.
Noem would collaborate closely with Stephen Miller, whom Trump appointed as his deputy chief of staff for policy, if she is confirmed. Miller played a critical role in the development of numerous of Trump’s most stringent immigration policies during his inaugural term.
Despite her lack of experience in national security, Noem has been vocal about immigration issues and has dispatched the South Dakota National Guard to the U.S.-Mexico border.
[READ MORE: Trump Picks GOP Star Lee Zeldin To Head up EPA]
