Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has been criticised after wearing cowboy attire during an official visit to Argentina, where she signed a new visa-free travel agreement. At a press conference at the Campo De Mayo military base, she appeared on horseback wearing a cowboy hat, blue jeans, and a black western-style jacket.
Noem promised to expedite the easing of visa rules for Argentine citizens, praising President Javier Milei's commitment to border security. Argentina, which was removed from the US Visa Waiver Program in 2002 due to economic concerns, could see visa-free travel reinstated, though the process may take years.
The former South Dakota governor's choice of outfit drew mockery online, with critics dubbing her 'ICE Barbie' or 'Homeland Barbie'. Some social media users accused her of wasting taxpayers' money on photo opportunities. Others noted that Argentina's traditional gauchos dress differently, in ponchos and wide trousers.
This is not the first time Noem has staged such sartorial stunts; she has previously posed as a plumber, welder, Border Patrol agent, and firefighter. In March, she appeared in heavy make-up in front of caged prisoners at El Salvador's CECOT prison, where detainees allege torture and abuse.
