A recent undercover investigation has unveiled a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) official candidly admitting the agency's intention to resist directives from newly appointed DHS Secretary Kristi Noem.
This revelation comes from footage released by James OKeefes OKeefe Media Group, capturing Brandon Wright, the Platform Services Manager for DHS, expressing disdain for Noem and outlining the bureaucratic resistance within the department.
[tweet_embed]According to The Post Millennial, Wright was recorded stating, "Kristi Noem? I f*cking hate her," and further elaborated on the agency's internal dynamics. He explained to an undercover journalist, "The secretaries can set the priorities for the department, but they can't actually tell us what to do." Wright's comments suggest a deep-seated culture within DHS where career bureaucrats maintain significant autonomy, often sidelining political appointees. He added, "The truth is, we don't let them [secretaries] get in our way," highlighting the latitude employees have in interpreting directives that may not align with their views.
Wright likened the bureaucratic structure to a septic tank, indicating that multiple layers exist to dilute the impact of directives. "Theres a lot of layers like that in the government. And by the time the actual marching orders get to, like, me and below, we can filter it in a way that steadies the ship," he remarked. His comments reflect a broader issue of entrenched bureaucratic resistance that can stymie the implementation of new policies and priorities.
Wright's disdain for Noem was palpable, as he criticized her leadership, stating, "She doesnt know her a**," and further disparaged her understanding of the department's operations. "The Department of Homeland Security could fall on her f*cking head, and she wouldnt recognize what it is. Kristi Noem doesn't know sh*t," he said, expressing his dissatisfaction with her leadership style.
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In response to the video, the Department of Homeland Security issued a statement indicating that Secretary Noem has not yet viewed the footage in its entirety. The department emphasized that such behavior is unacceptable, noting, "This type of behavior will not be tolerated. This person has been placed on leave and is under investigationThe senior official says the termination of the official is imminent."
Kristi Noem, who previously served as the governor of South Dakota, was confirmed as DHS Secretary following a 59-34 Senate vote. Her confirmation marks a shift in leadership from Alejandro Mayorkas, who faced criticism during his tenure for his handling of border security and immigration issues. Noem has pledged to prioritize the safety of Americans, stating on social media, My mission as Secretary of Homeland Security is to keep America safe. Under my leadership, DHS will protect the American people with integrity and honesty. President Trump is putting Americans' safety FIRST.
As Noem steps into her new role, she faces the challenge of navigating a complex bureaucratic landscape within DHS, where entrenched resistance may pose significant hurdles to her policy agenda. Her commitment to dismantling the CBP One App and addressing border security issues will test her ability to assert control over an agency that, as revealed, may not readily align with her directives.
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