Prominent conservative commentator Megyn Kelly has denounced Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem as an “embarrassment” over her participation in what Kelly calls “ridiculous photo ops” with ICE agents, despite acknowledging Noem’s effective administrative work. Noem has earned the nickname ‘ICE Barbie’ for her glamorous appearances with immigration enforcement agents Kelly acknowledged Noem is “doing a great job” administratively but condemned her public relations approach.
Kelly’s Criticism of Noem’s Public Image
In a scathing critique that has rippled through conservative circles, media personality Megyn Kelly has taken aim at Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s approach to publicizing her role in border enforcement. Kelly specifically targeted Noem’s habit of participating in ICE operations while dressed in tactical gear, suggesting these appearances amount to little more than performative gestures that undermine the serious work of immigration enforcement professionals. The former Fox News host acknowledged Noem’s administrative capabilities but expressed deep concerns about her public relations strategy.
Kelly’s critique extended beyond mere disapproval of Noem’s photo opportunities. She argued that Noem’s presence during operations actively diminishes the roles of ICE, DHS, and CBP agents who perform these duties daily without fanfare. The ‘ICE Barbie’ nickname that has attached itself to Noem reflects both admiration from some quarters and criticism from others who view her approach as prioritizing image over substance in addressing the complex challenges at the southern border.
⭕ BREAKING HARD: Megyn Kelly PRAISES Noem’s record—SLAMS her “Officer Barbie” photo ops 📸🇺🇸💅
🔸 Kelly says she has “mixed feelings” about Kristi Noem’s DHS leadership—calling her effective but criticizing the glam-styled photo shoots.
🔸 Urges Noem to focus on results, not… pic.twitter.com/jwdFGnibML— thehardnewsdaily (@TheHardNewsD) April 10, 2025
Firearm Handling and Operational Concerns
Noem’s critics have focused particular attention on a recent video showing the secretary improperly handling a firearm during an operation, fueling concerns about both safety and authenticity. Social media users quickly identified and criticized technical errors in her weapon handling, raising questions about her familiarity with standard protocols despite her prominent role in enforcement activities. Kelly highlighted this incident as emblematic of the problems with Noem’s approach to her position.
“No one wants you there. First of all, nobody ever wants the extra lady who doesn’t actually belong. They just don’t.” – Megyn Kelly
Kelly also referenced rumors of Noem’s alleged affair with Corey Lewandowski, adding personal controversy to the professional criticism. This mention broadened the scope of Kelly’s critique beyond policy implementation to questions of character and judgment. Critics have additionally pointed to Noem’s attire during operations as inappropriate for the serious nature of immigration enforcement work, suggesting her selections are motivated more by image considerations than operational necessities.
Megyn Kelly has mixed feelings about Kristi Noem’s Officer Barbie cosplay, praises the DHS chief’s work but STOP the photo-op flops! https://t.co/8sm4MNKIL8 pic.twitter.com/7XqVUQuuAV
— RT (@RT_com) April 10, 2025
Policy Achievements Amidst Controversy
Despite the harsh personal critique, Kelly acknowledged Noem’s administrative effectiveness as DHS Secretary. Under Noem’s leadership, the department has reinstated the Victims of Immigration Crime Engagement (VOICE) office, which provides support to families affected by crimes committed by individuals in the country illegally. This office, originally established during Donald Trump’s first administration in 2017 and subsequently closed by President Biden in 2021, represents a significant policy shift in the department’s approach to immigration enforcement.
“she’s doing a great job,”—Megyn Kelly
Noem has maintained her hands-on approach to the role despite criticism, including visiting a prison in El Salvador to observe that country’s approach to gang enforcement. These substantive policy initiatives provide context for the criticism she has received regarding her public persona, highlighting the tension between effective policy implementation and public perception in contemporary politics. This ongoing dispute between two prominent conservative women reflects broader debates about substance versus style in addressing national challenges.