Will Trump turn on Kristi Noem and Stephen Miller?

 

Will Trump turn on Kristi Noem and Stephen Miller?

As of January 28, 2026, President Trump has publicly stood by Kristi Noem and Stephen Miller despite significant internal friction and external pressure following the fatal shooting of a U.S. citizen in Minneapolis.

 

Kristi Noem (DHS Secretary):

Current Status: Trump explicitly stated on Tuesday that she will not resign, saying, "She's doing a very good job".

Internal Strain: Despite Trump's public defense, Noem is considered to be "on thin ice". Trump recently dispatched border czar Tom Homan to take over on-the-ground operations in Minneapolis, a move seen as a partial bypass of her authority.

External Pressure: She faces calls to resign from Republican senators Thom Tillis and Lisa Murkowski, while House Democrats are threatening impeachment.

 

Stephen Miller (Deputy Chief of Staff):

Current Status: His position is not currently considered to be at risk. White House officials noted Trump is "hesitant to talk about getting rid of someone" who has been a loyal advisor for over a decade.

Internal Friction: Miller has reportedly "turned against" Noem. However, he was notably absent from a high-stakes two-hour meeting between Trump and Noem on Monday night.

Public Distancing: The White House has distanced Trump from Miller's comments labeling the shooting victim a "would-be assassin," with Trump stating he does not believe the victim was an assassin.