Calls for the removal of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem are growing louder on Capitol Hill following the second fatal shooting of a U.S. citizen by federal agents in Minneapolis this month. The latest incident, which occurred over the weekend, has reignited scrutiny of the Department of Homeland Security’s enforcement practices and sparked renewed political backlash from Democrats.
The victim, identified as 37-year-old Alex Pretti, was killed during a federal operation conducted by DHS personnel. His death follows the earlier killing of Renee Nicole Good, also 37, who was shot earlier in January under similar circumstances. Together, the two incidents have intensified accusations that DHS leadership has failed to ensure accountability and transparency in high-risk enforcement actions.
Impeachment Effort Gains Momentum
In response to the earlier shooting, Rep. Robin Kelly of Illinois introduced articles of impeachment against Secretary Noem. Support for the resolution has expanded rapidly, with 140 House Democrats now backing the effort-representing a substantial majority of the Democratic caucus.
The list of supporters includes progressive lawmakers, members of party leadership, and centrists from competitive districts, signaling broad concern across ideological lines. With procedural options available, the resolution could reach the House floor as early as next week.
Widening Calls for Resignation
Beyond impeachment, a growing number of Democratic officials are directly urging Noem to step down. Several U.S. senators have publicly stated that DHS leadership has lost credibility, while House members argue that internal investigations cannot be trusted to fairly assess the actions of federal agents.
Democratic governors and a coalition of House lawmakers with military backgrounds have also weighed in, calling for a pause in certain interior enforcement operations while independent reviews are conducted. Their statements emphasize concerns about civilian safety and command responsibility within DHS.
Conflicting Accounts Raise Concerns
Secretary Noem’s public statements following both shootings have drawn criticism after eyewitness videos and local reports appeared to contradict official descriptions. In the most recent case, initial claims that the victim posed an imminent threat have been questioned after footage surfaced showing no clear evidence of a weapon at the scene.
The earlier shooting of Good was similarly controversial, with DHS characterizing the incident in severe terms that were later challenged by witness accounts. These discrepancies have fueled demands for outside investigations and have unsettled some Republican lawmakers as well.
Bipartisan Unease Emerges
While Democrats have led the pushback, a small number of Republicans have expressed discomfort with how the department handled initial communications. Some have called for independent oversight to restore public trust, while others criticized what they described as premature conclusions issued before investigations were complete.
Sen. Rand Paul has announced upcoming hearings that will examine DHS enforcement funding and operational conduct, with senior officials from multiple agencies expected to testify.
Funding Fight Adds Pressure
The controversy has now spilled into broader budget negotiations. Senate Democrats have warned they will withhold support for government funding legislation that includes DHS unless changes are made, raising the possibility of a partial government shutdown later this week.
Republican leaders have criticized the strategy but acknowledged that certain reforms, such as expanded use of body cameras, could be considered. The White House has urged Congress to separate funding decisions from policy disputes, warning that essential agencies could be forced to halt operations if no agreement is reached.
DHS Response and Next Steps
The Department of Homeland Security has defended its enforcement mission, stating that agents are carrying out laws enacted by Congress. Officials argue that criticism should be directed at lawmakers rather than frontline personnel and leadership.
Secretary Noem is scheduled to appear before the Senate Judiciary Committee in early March, where lawmakers are expected to press her on operational oversight, use-of-force standards, and recent events in Minnesota. With political pressure mounting, that testimony could prove pivotal for her future at DHS.
For full context and developments on “Trump Administration Dispatches Tom Homan to Minneapolis After Release of Fatal Police Shooting Video,” read the complete analysis in this blog.
