Complete List of Democrats Who Voted to Confirm Trump Nominee Kristi Noem

Kristi Noem Confirmed as DHS Secretary with Bipartisan Support

Former South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has been confirmed as Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) by a Senate vote of 59-34. This decision included support from six Democratic senators alongside Republican votes. Noem's confirmation reflects the administration's focus on immigration enforcement and border security, although concerns were raised about her limited direct experience in law enforcement or homeland security.

Six Democratic senators broke ranks to support Noem's nomination: Jack Gruber-USA TODAY

Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania

Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania voted to confirm Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security, a decision that deviates from his typical progressive stance. Fetterman is known for his focus on working-class issues and criminal justice reform. This unexpected support for Noem raises questions about the potential political or strategic considerations influencing his decision, which appears to contrast with his usual policy alignments and political priorities. Julia Demaree Nikhinson-Pool via Imagn Images

Senator Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire

Senator Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire, a former governor and strong advocate for public safety and education, also supported Noem’s nomination. Hassan has often worked to address security concerns, particularly on the northern border of her state. David Sokol/Wicked Local / USA TODAY NETWORK

Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia

Virginia Senator Tim Kaine, known for his bipartisan approach and focus on civil rights and education, voted in favor of Noem’s confirmation. Kaine has a history of working across the aisle on key issues, emphasizing governance over partisan divides. His support likely reflects his desire for stability within DHS during a politically charged period. Jack Gruber-USA TODAY

Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey

Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey, who previously served as a national security advisor, highlighted his desire for communication and collaboration in his statement, per Newsweek:
"I had several direct conversations with Governor Noem. While we disagreed strongly on a number of key points of Trump's agenda, we both agreed that we could more effectively raise and try to address the pressing needs and concerns of communities and families in New Jersey if we communicate and engage directly with one another. Our country has a broken immigration system; I have been clear that further instilling fear in immigration communities is not the path to fixing it." Jasper Colt, Jasper Colt / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Senator Gary Peters of Michigan

Senator Gary Peters of Michigan, chair of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, cited Noem’s willingness to work on a bipartisan basis as a key reason for his support. Jack Gruber / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Senator Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire

Jeanne Shaheen, a U.S. senator from New Hampshire since 2009 and former state governor, has a long record of bipartisan collaboration. Shaheen was among the Democratic senators who supported the confirmation of Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security. Jack Gruber / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan

Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin, a former CIA analyst and defense policy expert, was among the six Democrats who supported Kristi Noem’s confirmation as Secretary of Homeland Security. Jack Gruber-USA TODAY

Kristi Noem Outlines Priorities Following DHS Confirmation

Kristi Noem issued a statement on Saturday following her confirmation vote, stating, “As the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, I will work every day to keep all Americans safe and secure,” Noem said. “One of my top priorities is achieving President Trump’s mandate from the American people to secure our southern border and fix our broken immigration system.” Jack Gruber/USA TODAY / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Senator Thune Praises Kristi Noem’s Qualifications for DHS Role

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) commended Noem’s credentials, stating, “Kristi has everything it takes to undertake this task,” Thune said. “Fixing this crisis and restoring respect for the rule of law is one of President Trump and Republicans’ top priorities. Jack Gruber-USA TODAY

Senator Schumer Voices Opposition to Kristi Noem’s Confirmation

Not all lawmakers shared the same enthusiasm. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) criticized Noem’s approach prior to the vote, stating, “Kristi Noem is heading in the wrong direction. And I will vote no,” as reported by Fox News. Seth Harrison/The Journal News / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Senator Gallego Opposes Noem’s Confirmation, Citing Transparency Concerns

Senator Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) also voiced his opposition, citing a lack of transparency. “Both in our private meeting, during questioning before the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and in follow-up questions sent to her, Governor Noem refused to answer questions or provide the details needed for me to support her nomination,” Gallego said in a statement to Newsweek. Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

White House Statement

The White House praised Noem’s confirmation, emphasizing its alignment with President Trump’s immigration and security priorities:
"Kristi Noem's confirmation as Secretary of Homeland Security underscores President Trump's commitment to strengthening our nation's security. America is BACK," read a statement on X (formerly Twitter). Pixabay