Story perspectives

Lawmakers Refer Noem for Potential Perjury Investigation

3/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Representative Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) referred Kristi Noem to Attorney General Pam Bondi (R-Fla.) for a potential perjury investigation.
They allege Noem's March testimony on immigration and $220 million ad campaign may violate federal law.
The referral cites discrepancies with court records on detainee treatment and ad bidding.
Noem's department denies the allegations as false.
The Justice Department has not indicated it will pursue the investigation.

History

Historical Context

The Watergate scandal began on June 17, 1972, when five men associated with President Nixon's re-election campaign were arrested for breaking into the Democratic National Committee headquarters. The ensuing cover-up led to Nixon's impeachment hearings in 1974, culminating in his resignation on August 9. This event significantly eroded public trust in government and highlighted the importance of political accountability, as seen in recent referrals like that of Kristi Noem.

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Story summary

Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Representative Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) referred Kristi Noem to Attorney General Pam Bondi (R-Fla.) for a potential perjury investigation.
They allege Noem's March testimony on immigration and $220 million ad campaign may violate federal law.
The referral cites discrepancies with court records on detainee treatment and ad bidding.
Noem's department denies the allegations as false.
The Justice Department has not indicated it will pursue the investigation.

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