Kristi Noem Faces Impeachment Threat as Donald Trump Sends Tom Homan to Minnesota

President Donald Trump has made a significant move by appointing Tom Homan, a longtime immigration enforcer, to oversee Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Minnesota.

The White House labeled this decision as an internal reshuffling, but critics argue it aims to address the fallout from deadly ICE shootings in Minneapolis.

Last month has seen two U.S. citizens killed during ICE operations in Minnesota. The first victim was 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good, followed by Alex Pretti, also 37, an intensive care nurse. Pretti’s death has prompted congressional scrutiny and sparked calls for the impeachment of Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem.

On Monday, January 26, Trump confirmed Homan’s new role, stating he would “report directly to me.”

He also mentioned having a “very good call” with Democratic Governor Tim Walz, who expressed his desire for impartial investigations into the recent shootings and a reduction in federal agents in Minnesota. Walz noted that Trump agreed to discuss an independent investigation with the Department of Homeland Security.

Homan’s appointment signals a shift in strategy from Noem’s focus on deportation numbers. Homan advocates for targeted removals aimed at undocumented immigrants with criminal records.

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that Homan would oversee arrests of “the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens,” while investigations into alleged charity fraud in Minneapolis continue.

The situation escalated when Pretti was shot and killed by ICE agents during a protest. Initially, DHS officials claimed that agents acted in self-defense, alleging that Pretti threatened them with a weapon.

However, video evidence contradicts this claim, as witnesses did not see Pretti pose a threat. His family and friends argue that he was a compassionate caregiver who was deeply troubled by the administration’s immigration enforcement actions.

In the wake of Pretti’s death, pressure on Noem has intensified. House Democrats have called for her impeachment, with 145 members demanding action. Some Democrats from swing districts have also requested her resignation. However, party leaders are framing the moment as a chance to “remove” or “fire” the secretary. Even some GOP lawmakers have sought testimony from ICE and Border Patrol officials. Senator Rand Paul has scheduled hearings for this month.