Megyn Kelly has launched a scathing critique of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, branding her staged photo ops with ICE agents as “embarrassing” political theater. The former Fox News anchor acknowledged Noem’s administrative competence but derided her tendency to insert herself into border enforcement operations in glamorous attire. Does the “ICE Barbie” nickname help or hurt Noem’s credibility with border enforcement personnel?
Kelly’s Blistering Critique of “ICE Barbie”
Megyn Kelly has ignited controversy with her pointed criticism of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s approach to border operations. The conservative commentator didn’t hold back when addressing what she called Noem’s “ridiculous photo ops” during border enforcement activities, suggesting the former South Dakota governor is more concerned with her image than effective policy implementation.
While acknowledging that Noem is “doing a great job” administratively, Kelly expressed frustration with her self-promotional style at the border. “Just stop trying to glamorize the mission and put yourself in the middle of it as you cosplay ICE agent, which you’re not,” Kelly stated, challenging Noem’s tendency to insert herself into enforcement operations while wearing camera-ready attire.
“It is not helpful to Team Trump in these courts everyday to have the DHS Secretary be like, ‘I think he did human trafficking’ and next thing you know that guy’s in El Salvador in prison…”
Megyn reacts to Kristi Noem's latest cosplaying and saying she "thinks" he's a human… pic.twitter.com/WUIN9Q1W0a
— The Megyn Kelly Show (@MegynKellyShow) April 10, 2025
Substance vs. Style in Border Security
Noem has gained attention for her hands-on approach to border security, frequently appearing alongside ICE agents in field operations. Critics, including Kelly, suggest these appearances prioritize optics over substance, with Kelly bluntly stating, “No one wants you there. First of all, nobody ever wants the extra lady who doesn’t actually belong. They just don’t.”
Social media users have scrutinized Noem’s operational appearances, pointing out alleged improper firearm handling during documented operations. The criticism extends beyond mere theatrical concerns to potential safety issues, with firearms experts questioning her technical proficiency with weapons during publicized enforcement activities.
Megyn Kelly doesn't like Kristi Noem
What are your thoughts? pic.twitter.com/q9jHAgnCif
— Vince Langman (@LangmanVince) April 9, 2025
Policy Achievements Amid Personal Controversy
Despite the controversy surrounding her public image, Noem has made substantive policy moves in her role. She recently announced the re-establishment of the Victims Of Immigration Crime Engagement (VOICE) office, which provides support to families affected by crimes committed by illegal immigrants.
The VOICE office had initially been established during Trump’s first term in 2017 but was shuttered by the Biden administration in 2021. Noem’s restoration of this resource represents a tangible policy achievement amid the ongoing debate about her leadership style and public persona.
Kelly’s criticism also touched on personal matters, referencing rumors of an affair between Noem and former Trump campaign manager Corey Lewandowski. This personal angle adds another dimension to the scrutiny Noem faces as she continues high-profile activities, including a recent visit to a prison in El Salvador as part of broader border security initiatives.