On Sunday, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem declared that the suspect in last week’s shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. was “radicalized” while in the United States — not abroad. The Guardian+2Axios+2
The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, entered the U.S. in 2021 under the evacuation and resettlement program for Afghans. Noem acknowledged that his asylum was approved earlier this year during the previous administration. The Guardian+1
During interviews on major Sunday programs, Noem blamed what she described as “abandoned vetting procedures” under the prior administration, while also announcing continued efforts to investigate Lakanwal’s network — including contacts in his home community and family — whom she suggested may have influenced his radicalization. The Guardian+1
At the same time, Noem defended her decision — now under scrutiny — to carry on deportation flights to El Salvador this March despite a federal judge’s order to halt them. The flights had carried Venezuelan detainees under her jurisdiction. According to filings from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), she made the final call to continue the deportations, arguing the detainees were no longer on U.S. soil when the judge’s order took effect. The Guardian+2News Channel 3-12+2
Noem dismissed criticism that she defied the court, calling the judges “activist” and insisting her actions were lawful and aligned with the administration’s commitment to public safety. The Guardian+1
Her remarks have reignited debates over the U.S. immigration vetting process, the scope of executive power in deportations, and whether the government should continue to use broad resettlement or asylum programs in light of security concerns.
