In a recent development, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has firmly refuted claims that her agency is involved in the creation of a reality television show where immigrants would compete for expedited U.
S. citizenship.
The allegations, initially reported by the Daily Mail, suggested that Noem was advocating for such a program. However, during her testimony before the Senate Homeland Security Committee, Noem categorically dismissed these reports as "completely inaccurate."
According to the Daily Caller, Noem addressed the issue directly when questioned by Democrat Connecticut Sen. Richard Blumenthal. She stated, "Sir, we have no knowledge of a reality show. There may have been something submitted to the department, but I did not know anything about this reality show until the reporter reached out, we told him we have no knowledge of it, we dont know what hes talking about, and they still printed wrong information."
Noem further criticized the Daily Mail for publishing what she described as false information, emphasizing that neither she nor her executive team were aware of any such proposal being under consideration.
The article in question, penned by Shawn Cohen, alleged that Noem had endorsed the concept of the reality show. However, DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin swiftly issued a statement denying these claims. McLaughlin asserted, "This is completely false. Daily Mails reporting is an affront to journalism. Secretary Noem has not backed nor is even aware of the pitch of any scripted or reality show."
She elaborated that the DHS receives numerous television pitches annually, covering a wide range of topics from border operations to white-collar investigations, all of which undergo a rigorous evaluation process.
The controversy stems from a pitch reportedly introduced by Rob Worsoff, known for his work on the A&E reality show Duck Dynasty. The Daily Mail also suggested that previous administrations under Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden had shown interest in Worsoffs proposal. However, Noem and her team have made it clear that this particular pitch has neither been approved nor rejected by DHS staff.
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