Noem Defies Supreme Court on Abrego Garcia Return; DHS Seeks $175B, FBI Faces Budget Cuts

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and FBI Director Kash Patel testified before congressional committees on immigration enforcement and law enforcement funding.

Secretary Noem was questioned by Senators Chris Murphy and Chris Van Hollen about the Trump administration's refusal to facilitate the return of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident deported to El Salvador on March 15. Despite a unanimous 9-0 Supreme Court decision ordering his return for due process, Noem stated there is 'no scenario' in which he would be allowed back, labeling him a 'known terrorist' and 'wife beater,' though no public evidence has been provided. Noem asserted compliance with court orders, while Democratic senators accused her of disregarding the Supreme Court's ruling and violating constitutional rights. The administration has invoked the state secrets privilege in the case, with a hearing scheduled for May 16.

Noem defended the administration's use of the Alien Enemies Act to expedite deportations of individuals deemed security threats and noted a significant decrease in illegal border crossings. She requested a $175 billion budget for DHS, citing the need for border wall construction, additional personnel, and technology upgrades.

FBI Director Kash Patel faced questions regarding the Trump administration's proposed cuts to the FBI budget. Patel initially told lawmakers, 'We need more than what has been proposed,' but later indicated he could work within the proposed budget. He clashed with Senator Patty Murray over accusations of weaponizing the bureau, denying any politicization and defending his personnel decisions related to investigations such as January 6th.