Story perspectives

DHS Admits Inaccuracies in Kristi Noem Text Records

11/7/2025

32 4

Summary

Story summary

During a public records lawsuit by American Oversight seeking Secretary Kristi Noem's messages, DHS admitted providing inaccurate information about text-message retention.
DHS initially claimed it no longer maintained text-message data after April 9, 2025, but later said automatic preservation was disabled for cybersecurity reasons.
The National Archives is investigating potential record destruction after concerns by House Democrats about DHS's compliance with public records laws.

1 of 1

Story summary

During a public records lawsuit by American Oversight seeking Secretary Kristi Noem's messages, DHS admitted providing inaccurate information about text-message retention.
DHS initially claimed it no longer maintained text-message data after April 9, 2025, but later said automatic preservation was disabled for cybersecurity reasons.
The National Archives is investigating potential record destruction after concerns by House Democrats about DHS's compliance with public records laws.