DHS Secretary Kristi Noem visits U.S.-Mexico border in Arizona
UPDATE (12:08 PM): Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited the U.S.-Mexico border in Nogales, Arizona Wednesday.
According to Secretary Noem, preliminary January data shows that encounters at the border remain at historic lows, with January marking the fourth consecutive month of declining border crossings.
In her remarks at the event, Noem thanked President Donald Trump for his commitment to border security, and thanked the officers who actively patrol the border.
"The high degree of talent and experience that we have here today is a test testament to not just President Trump's commitment, but also to the people that have secured the border and have also worked every single day to make sure that America is safe again," Noem expressed.
Noem's border trip comes as she is taking fire for her handling of two fatal shootings by federal agents in Minnesota, with House Democrats putting forward legislation to impeach her.
PHOENIX (NBC, KYMA) - Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem arrived in Phoenix Tuesday, drawing both strong support and sharp criticism as she begins a visit focused on border security.
She landed at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, where she was greeted by supporters ahead of a scheduled visit to the Arizona-Mexico border.
A line of U.S. Border Patrol agents stood waiting as Noem exited her aircraft.
Cheers erupted from more than 50 supporters gathered at the airport, and the secretary took time to shake hands and pose for selfies before departing.
Secretary Noem's visit comes as she prepares to travel to Nogales Wednesday, where she is expected to survey the border wall and receive briefings on border operations, but her appearance in Arizona is also amplifying concerns from protesters.
Tensions are rising amid rumors that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement could increase enforcement actions in the state following recent events in Minneapolis.
To watch the livestream of Noem's visit to Nogales, see attached video.
