Andy Kim Questions Kristi Noem on ICE Facility Oversight and Habeas Corpus

Oversight of ICE Detention Facilities

• 🏛️ Senator Andy Kim inquired about the protocol for Congressional oversight visits to ICE detention facilities, specifically referencing a press release from the Department of Homeland Security.
• 🚨 DHS Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that members of Congress can conduct oversight but stated that unannounced visits should not involve "mobs" or intent to "break in and assault law enforcement officers."
• 🤝 Noem clarified that ICE facilitates tours when requested and accommodates security needs, but criticized instances where individuals allegedly "break in" or engage in "criminal acts" during such visits.
• ❓ Kim sought to clarify that the individuals in question were not "storming the fence" and were invited in by ICE while a tour was being arranged.

Habeas Corpus and Constitutional Authority

• ⚖️ Senator Kim questioned Secretary Noem regarding the suspension of habeas corpus, asking if she understood that such a suspension requires an act of Congress.
• 📜 Noem acknowledged that President Lincoln previously suspended habeas corpus with retroactive Congressional action and believes the current president should have the right to consider it, though she stated no such consideration has been communicated to her.
• ❓ When pressed, Noem could not identify the specific section or article of the Constitution that outlines the suspension clause of habeas corpus, which Senator Kim noted is in Article I, detailing Congress's responsibilities.
• 🗣️ Noem denied having conversations with Stephen Miller about suspending habeas corpus.

FEMA Preparedness and Training

• ⚠️ Senator Kim expressed concern over reports that FEMA's hurricane season plan was only 80-85% complete days before the season's start.
• ✅ Secretary Noem assured the committee that FEMA is actively engaged in hurricane preparedness, including pre-staging personnel and equipment, and conducting tabletop exercises.
• 🤝 Noem agreed to check if the hurricane preparedness plan could be shared with the committee.
• 🎓 Regarding the National Fire Academy, Noem confirmed that the plan to restart in-person training has been approved.