Kristi Noem Hospitalized After Allergic Reaction, Report States

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem was admitted to a hospital following an allergic reaction, according to her spokesperson. The spokesperson confirmed that Noem, age 53, is currently alert and on the road to recovery, emphasizing that her hospitalization was a precautionary measure.

Noem oversees a large department comprising approximately 260,000 employees responsible for various critical functions including immigration enforcement, airport security, and disaster response. She has emerged as a prominent figure in President Donald Trump's administration, known for her extensive travel and active engagement on social media platforms. Her role has placed her at the forefront of significant immigration policies, where she has been a vocal advocate for initiatives aimed at mass deportation and has participated in operations related to immigration enforcement.

Last week, Noem was involved in a notable incident during a press conference in California, where U.S. Senator Alex Padilla, a Democrat from California, was forcibly removed while attempting to speak with her regarding immigration raids. This altercation was brought into the spotlight during a speech by Padilla in the Senate, where he expressed his feelings about the event.

According to Homeland Security, the Secret Service, which is tasked with Noem's protection, misidentified Senator Padilla as a potential threat during the incident. They later described his actions as disrespectful political theatrics. Video footage from the scene revealed a Secret Service agent grabbing Padilla by his jacket and forcibly removing him from the venue. Following the incident, Padilla was handcuffed and taken to the ground in a hallway.

In a subsequent interview, Noem described her conversation with Padilla after the altercation as positive but criticized his approach as inappropriate.

Before her appointment as Secretary of Homeland Security, Noem served as the Governor of South Dakota for two terms and was previously a member of Congress. She is known for her strong support of President Trump and his policies. Earlier this year, Noem faced a personal incident when her purse was stolen while dining with family on Easter Sunday. The purse reportedly contained around $3,000 in cash along with her keys, driver's license, passport, and Homeland Security badge. Following the theft, a suspect was apprehended and is facing federal charges for aggravated identity theft, robbery, and fraud.