Congressional Democrats Seek Investigation into Potential Perjury by Former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem
The Department of Justice is expected to receive a formal referral urging an investigation into potential perjury by former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem during her recent testimony on Capitol Hill. Congressional Democrats are preparing the request, which will be delivered to Attorney General Pam Bondi. The referral, signed by Senator Dick Durbin and Rep. Jamie Raskin, highlights statements made by Noem during hearings in early March that may have violated laws against false statements to Congress. The request will focus on Noem's comments regarding a taxpayer-funded advertising campaign, detention facilities, and compliance with federal court orders.
Specifically, the referral will point out four statements from Noem's testimony that Democrats believe could constitute perjury or knowingly false statements. Noem's response to Senator John Kennedy's questions about the ad campaign and President Trump's awareness of it will be scrutinized, especially in light of Trump's subsequent denial of knowledge. The referral will also challenge Noem's explanations about the campaign contracts and conditions in immigration detention facilities, citing ICE internal audits that allegedly contradict her claims of compliance with medical care standards.
A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security has denied the allegations of perjury against Noem, calling them "categorically false." While the Justice Department is not obligated to act on congressional referrals, the Democrats are pushing for an investigation into Noem's testimony. Following her appearance before Congress, Noem was reassigned by President Trump to a special envoy role, with Senator Markwayne Mullin nominated to lead the Department of Homeland Security.