Noem’s Coast Guard Resource Use Affects Military Relations

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s first year has seen strained relations with U.S. Coast Guard officials, primarily due to her early decisions, including redirecting resources from search-and-rescue missions to support deportation efforts. While some Coast Guard members appreciate Noem’s engagement, senior officials express concerns that her focus undermines their traditional missions. Tensions escalated over directives prioritizing migrant transport over core operations, leading to confrontations, including an incident involving her adviser. The Coast Guard has privately criticized Noem’s use of resources, but DHS denies any changes to mission priorities.