National Guard Shooting Suspect Radicalized in U.S.: Homeland Security Secretary Noem Discusses Asylum Process Resumption
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated on NBC News’ “Meet the Press” that the suspect in the National Guard shooting was radicalized in the U.S. and that the asylum process for migrants would resume once the administration has addressed a backlog of applications under new standards following the attack. President Trump had previously announced a “permanent pause” on migration from “third world countries” after the suspect, an Afghan national named Rahmanullah Lakanwal, was identified. Lakanwal, who served with U.S. troops in Afghanistan, arrived in the U.S. in 2021 during the Biden administration but was granted asylum during the Trump administration. He will face first-degree murder charges for the shooting that resulted in the death of National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom and the hospitalization of National Guard member Andrew Wolfe.
Noem mentioned during the interview that the suspect, Lakanwal, was likely radicalized in the U.S. through connections in his home community and state. She emphasized the need to investigate those who had interactions with him. The vetting process for approving his asylum claim during the Trump administration was questioned, with Noem pointing out that vetting procedures were neglected under the Biden administration. Senator Mark Kelly criticized the Trump administration for shifting blame to President Biden for everything, calling it almost comical.
The director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced a halt on all asylum decisions until thorough vetting and screening of applicants could be ensured. Noem reiterated that the asylum process would resume once the backlog of cases was cleared and applicants were vetted according to the Trump administration’s standards. She emphasized the importance of vetting individuals under the implemented standards to determine their eligibility to remain in the country and the need for immediate removal if found ineligible. When asked about deporting individuals with pending asylum claims, Noem stated that they would be deported if necessary.