Scrutiny of Kristi Noem's Leadership at DHS: Delays and Controversies

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's directive requiring her personal approval for all contracts, grants, and awards exceeding $100,000 has led to significant delays in disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). A report from Senate Democrats indicates that as of September 8, 2025, this policy has resulted in 1,034 pending or delayed approvals, impacting critical disaster responses, including aid for victims of the Texas floods and Hurricane Helene. The average delay for these approvals has been reported at three weeks, with some cases taking even longer.

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Noem's policy was implemented in June 2025 as a measure to enhance oversight and accountability within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). However, critics argue that it has created bureaucratic gridlock, hampering FEMA's ability to deliver timely assistance to vulnerable communities. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Andy Kim (D-NJ) have publicly condemned the policy, asserting that it undermines FEMA's mission and endangers public safety during emergencies.

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The policy has faced backlash not only from Democrats but also from some Republican senators. During a recent Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) criticized Noem's leadership, stating, "What we’ve seen is a disaster under your leadership." He highlighted the adverse effects of her directive on FEMA's operational efficiency and questioned her handling of immigration enforcement and the deaths of two Minnesotans by federal agents. Tillis's remarks included a call for accountability, emphasizing the need for transparency and responsiveness in government operations.

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In response to the allegations of delays, a DHS spokesperson defended Noem's review process, claiming it was designed to expedite funding requests that had previously been stalled. The spokesperson stated, "FEMA continues to actively process and release billions in aid," asserting that the review policy has saved taxpayers money by preventing waste. However, this assertion has been met with skepticism, particularly given the evidence of significant backlogs in disaster assistance.

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There are conflicting accounts regarding the extent of delays caused by Noem's policy. While DHS officials maintain that there are no systemic delays, whistleblower reports and Senate analyses suggest otherwise, indicating that the approval process has indeed slowed down critical funding. Furthermore, internal records reviewed by ProPublica contradict Noem's testimony to Congress, revealing that her top aide, Corey Lewandowski, has been involved in approving contracts, despite Noem's denials.

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The scrutiny surrounding Noem's leadership continues as she is scheduled to testify before the House Judiciary Committee. The ongoing investigation into DHS's staffing cuts and the implications of her policies on FEMA's operational capabilities are likely to remain focal points of discussion. Senators are calling for a reassessment of Noem's directive and a thorough investigation into the delays and their impact on disaster response efforts.

The Hill

• “Secretary Noem’s policy of personally approving certain contracts is putting the safety of communities in need at risk,” — Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI)

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• “For an administration that touts the importance of efficiency, her needless red tape is proven to have left vulnerable communities without crucial funding when they needed it most.” — Sen. Andy Kim (D-NJ)

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• “And what we’ve seen is a disaster under your leadership, Ms.” — Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC)

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