“Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem expressed her support for a covert plan to transform the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) during an interview on CNN’s “State of the Union” on Sunday. Noem stated that she believes it is necessary to eliminate FEMA in its current form, highlighting the importance of redirecting resources and funding to assist individuals affected by disasters such as Hurricane Helene and the wildfires in California. She conveyed confidence in President Donald Trump’s ability to evaluate the situation alongside his team, emphasizing the need for a collaborative effort with Congress to ensure a successful restructuring process.
This announcement comes at a time when Trump has been contemplating the elimination of FEMA following a series of natural disasters, including Hurricane Helene in North Carolina and the devastating wildfires in California. During a visit to North Carolina, Trump disclosed plans to sign an executive order aimed at reforming or potentially abolishing FEMA, citing a lack of effectiveness in the agency’s performance. He expressed a preference for reducing FEMA’s role, indicating a reevaluation of the agency’s overall functionality.
In response to questioning by CNN regarding reports in The Washington Post about Elon Musk and his team at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) being granted access to FEMA disaster data, Noem confirmed that the president had authorized Musk’s involvement. She underscored the administration’s commitment to enhancing departmental efficiency and expressed her confidence in the collaboration with Musk and his team.
Noem also addressed the Trump administration’s proposal to utilize Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, for housing migrants. While the current plan focuses on accommodating violent offenders at Guantanamo, she did not dismiss the possibility of detaining nonviolent offenders at the facility. Noem emphasized the administration’s dedication to maintaining high detention standards and ensuring national security, stating that necessary measures will be taken to safeguard America.
Despite ongoing construction efforts to establish temporary detention facilities at Guantanamo, Noem indicated the potential capacity to accommodate up to 30,000 migrants. In a recent interview on NBC News’ “Meet the Press,” she evaded inquiries regarding the housing of women and children at Guantanamo, leaving the possibility open. Responding to CNN’s queries about the legal implications of transferring individuals from U.S. soil to Guantanamo, Noem affirmed her and the president’s comfort with the decision. However, she refrained from committing to a specific timeline for detaining individuals at Guantanamo before their repatriation.”
