U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem speaks at press conference to discuss ongoing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations, as part of U.S. President Donald Trump's immigration policy, at One World Trade Center in New York City, U.S., January 8, 2026. REUTERS/David 'Dee' Delgado
(Washington, DC) – Articles of impeachment have been filed against Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, marking a sharp escalation in congressional pushback against the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
The measure was introduced by Rep. Robin Kelly, a Democrat from Illinois, who cited Noem’s role in overseeing the administration’s immigration crackdown and her alleged refusal to allow lawmakers proper oversight of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention facilities.
Kelly’s impeachment articles accuse Noem of violating the public trust, abusing the powers of her office, and denying members of Congress access to facilities under the Department of Homeland Security’s authority. Kelly said the alleged obstruction prevented lawmakers from carrying out their constitutional oversight responsibilities.
The Illinois lawmaker said the impeachment effort already has the backing of nearly 70 members of Congress and expects additional lawmakers to sign on in the coming days.
The filing is largely symbolic at this stage, as impeachment proceedings would require action by House leadership and a majority vote to advance. Even if adopted by the House, any removal would require a two-thirds vote in the Senate.
The Department of Homeland Security has not publicly responded to the impeachment filing as of publication time.
