Moderate Democrats Flip On Trump Team
Democratic Sen. Jacky Rosen of Nevada is calling for the impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, dramatically escalating tensions in Washington following a deadly law enforcement encounter during unrest in Minneapolis.
Rosen, long considered one of the more centrist Democrats in the Senate, accused Noem of misleading the public in her handling of a fatal shooting involving a 37-year-old protester during a federal immigration operation.
The impeachment demand comes as congressional Democrats grow increasingly aggressive toward the Department of Homeland Security, with some now threatening to block funding altogether — even if it triggers another partial government shutdown.
A Sharp Turn for a “Moderate” Democrat
Just last year, Rosen worked with Republicans to help end a 43-day government shutdown. Her decision to now publicly support impeachment underscores how rapidly the political environment has shifted, even among Democrats previously cautious about criticizing the Trump administration on immigration and border enforcement.
More than 100 House Democrats have already backed a resolution to begin impeachment proceedings against Noem. In the Senate, however, support remains limited, suggesting internal divisions within the Democratic caucus.
In a statement, Rosen claimed Secretary Noem has lost control of the Department of Homeland Security and accused Immigration and Customs Enforcement of abusing its authority. She called Noem’s conduct “deeply shameful” and argued that removal from office is necessary.
Impeachment Faces Long Odds
Despite the heated rhetoric, impeachment remains highly unlikely in a Republican-controlled Congress. Still, the mounting outrage from Democrats threatens to complicate Senate Republicans’ efforts to quickly pass a wide-ranging spending bill and avoid a partial government shutdown set for January 30.
The political clash centers on a fatal shooting during unrest in Minneapolis. Federal agents encountered Alex Pretti during an enforcement operation, and he was later killed during a confrontation with Border Patrol officers.
Another protest-related death earlier this month has further intensified scrutiny of federal law enforcement actions and shifted the debate, even among Democrats who had previously avoided direct attacks on immigration agencies.
Conflicting Accounts and Public Debate
Secretary Noem quickly defended the agents involved, stating they acted to protect themselves and others during a dangerous situation. Administration officials said the individual posed a serious threat and interfered with a law enforcement operation.
Video footage reviewed by media outlets has sparked debate over what occurred, though officials later confirmed Pretti was legally carrying a firearm. Authorities have not stated whether the weapon was ever drawn.
Noem said the individual arrived with the apparent intent to disrupt the operation and warned that the situation could have resulted in even greater loss of life.
Broader Accusations Against DHS Leadership
Beyond the shooting itself, Rosen and other Democrats have accused Noem of mismanaging taxpayer resources and prioritizing self-promotion over public safety. Rosen cited reports involving the Coast Guard’s purchase of two high-end aircraft, arguing the spending raised serious concerns about fiscal responsibility.
Other Democrats have echoed the impeachment push, including members of the party’s left wing who have accused federal immigration agents of creating chaos in American cities.
Several Senate Democrats who previously supported reopening the government have now said they will vote against Homeland Security funding — even if it leads to a shutdown.
Republicans Call for Investigation, Not Impeachment
Republicans have largely rejected calls for impeachment, though several GOP senators have called for a full investigation into the Minneapolis incident, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and due process rather than political retaliation.
House Democrats have reportedly held private discussions with Minnesota state officials, during which many lawmakers voiced support for impeachment. A small number of Democrats who recently voted to fund DHS have since reversed course, demanding immediate action against Noem.
A Familiar Political Pattern
As Washington once again edges toward shutdown threats and impeachment talk, the episode highlights how immigration enforcement and public safety remain flashpoints — and how quickly bipartisan cooperation can collapse when tragedy, election-year pressure, and political escalation collide.
