U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly has moved to impeach Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, accusing her of overseeing what Kelly described as a nationwide “reign of terror” tied to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations.
Kelly, an Illinois Democrat, introduced the articles of impeachment on Jan. 14, joined by 70 co-sponsoring lawmakers.
The filing alleges that Noem abused her authority, obstructed congressional oversight, and violated public trust in connection with ICE enforcement actions carried out in multiple U.S. cities.
“Secretary Noem has brought her reign of terror to Chicago, L.A., Minneapolis, and communities from north to south, east to west,” Kelly said in a statement announcing the impeachment effort. “She needs to be impeached for her actions.”
Three Articles of Impeachment
The impeachment filing contains three articles:
- Obstruction of Congress,
- Violation of Public Trust, and
- Self-Dealing.
Kelly said the obstruction charge stems from Noem’s alleged refusal to allow her access to an ICE facility despite congressional clearance.
The lawmakers also accuse Noem of directing ICE operations that resulted in warrantless arrests and, in some cases, violence affecting U.S. citizens.
The third article focuses on allegations that Noem unlawfully authorized $200 million for an ICE recruitment advertising campaign, which Kelly and her colleagues argue constitutes misuse of federal funds.
Allegations of Harm and Escalation
According to the lawmakers, Noem has played a central role in expanding ICE deployments into major metropolitan areas, including Chicago, Los Angeles, and Minneapolis.
Kelly and her co-sponsors contend that these actions have led to heightened fear in affected communities and, in some instances, serious injuries and deaths.
“Secretary Noem has been instrumental in directing federal agents into these neighborhoods,” the filing states, asserting that the enforcement tactics lack proper legal safeguards.
Political Resistance and Uphill Path
Noem has previously dismissed Democratic impeachment threats as “silly,” but Kelly responded forcefully, warning that the effort reflects broader constitutional concerns.
“You have violated your oath of office, and there will be consequences,” Kelly said. “Members of Congress are watching you. The American people, most importantly, are watching you.”
Among the co-sponsors are Rep. Jasmine Crockett of Texas and Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, whose district includes Minneapolis, one of the cities cited in the impeachment articles.
Despite the strong language and growing list of Democratic supporters, the impeachment effort faces a steep political challenge. Any impeachment resolution must first pass the Republican-controlled House of Representatives by a simple majority, making approval unlikely under current leadership.
Still, Kelly and her colleagues say they intend to press forward, framing the impeachment as a necessary response to what they view as unchecked executive authority within DHS as ICE operations continue to expand nationwide.
