MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem faced strong pushback from Democratic lawmakers during an intense hearing in the U.S. House, as debate continued over the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement policies.

Democrats criticized the administration’s crackdown on illegal immigration, calling the actions unlawful and raising concerns about enforcement practices. Noem responded by defending the policies, arguing that public rhetoric surrounding immigration enforcement has contributed to a rise in violence against law enforcement officers.

According to Noem, Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers and National Guard troops have faced a significant increase in attacks. She also cited public safety concerns tied to illegal immigration.

“We have seen terrorist attacks and heinous crimes committed against American children and families by criminal illegal aliens and violent perpetrators who should have never been allowed into this country in the first place,” Noem said.

The hearing was briefly disrupted when an anti-ICE protester interrupted Noem during her opening statement. The protester was removed, and the hearing resumed shortly afterward.

Noem, a former South Dakota governor, now serves as Secretary of Homeland Security during a period of heightened national debate over border security, immigration enforcement, and public safety.