DHS Secretary Kristi Noem rushed to hospital with allergic reaction

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem was taken to hospital after an allergic reaction

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was hospitalised on June 17 after suffering an allergic reaction, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

The 53-year-old former governor of South Dakota, who was confirmed to her cabinet role in January, experienced the reaction in Washington, D.C. and was transported to a nearby hospital "out of an abundance of caution," said Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary of Public Affairs for DHS.

“She is alert and recovering,” McLaughlin stated, without disclosing the cause or nature of the allergy.

Noem’s health scare occurred just days after she returned from Los Angeles, where she had been overseeing operations amid widespread protests triggered by the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement policies.

As the head of DHS, Noem plays a central role in implementing President Trump’s sweeping deportation directives, making her a focal point for both criticism and praise in the administration’s broader crackdown on undocumented immigration.

My dear friend @Sec_Noem, our fearless Secretary of Homeland Security, was just rushed to the hospital. My heart is with her during this challenging time, but I know her strength and determination will shine through. Please join me in keeping Kristi in your prayers for a swift… pic.twitter.com/SHnLhs6gdX

— Bruce LeVell (@Bruce_LeVell) June 17, 2025

There has been no indication that Noem will take a leave of absence or that her duties will be reassigned. The department has not yet released further details, and it remains unclear whether the reaction was food-related, environmental or otherwise.

Noem’s hospitalisation drew immediate attention online, where speculation about her condition quickly spread. Supporters offered well wishes, while critics noted the intensity of her recent travel and public engagements.

Despite the brief health episode, Noem is expected to resume her duties soon. A full recovery is anticipated.