Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Senators Refer Kristi Noem for Perjury Investigation Amid Controversy

3/16/2026

50 11 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Senator Richard Durbin (D-Ill.) and Senator Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) refer Kristi Noem for a potential perjury investigation.
They say Noem misled Congress about DHS court orders and a $220 million ad campaign.
Following her testimony, U.S. President Donald Trump removed Noem and appointed Senator Markwayne Mullin, whose disclosures show stock trading.
The DOJ has yet to respond to the referral.

History

Historical Context

The Watergate scandal, which unfolded from 1972 to 1974, resulted in President Richard Nixon's resignation after he misled Congress, leading to the conviction of 69 officials. Today, Senators Richard Durbin and Jamie Raskin's referral of Kristi Noem for potential perjury highlights ongoing concerns about accountability in government, echoing the serious repercussions of misleading Congress established during Watergate.

1 of 2

Story summary

Senator Richard Durbin (D-Ill.) and Senator Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) refer Kristi Noem for a potential perjury investigation.
They say Noem misled Congress about DHS court orders and a $220 million ad campaign.
Following her testimony, U.S. President Donald Trump removed Noem and appointed Senator Markwayne Mullin, whose disclosures show stock trading.
The DOJ has yet to respond to the referral.

1 / 2