Kristi Noem, who was removed as Secretary of Homeland Security in March, is reportedly still occupying a taxpayer-funded U.S. Coast Guard home in Washington, D.C. Democratic Representative Robert Garcia sent a letter to DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin on May 1, demanding answers regarding Noem's continued residency and questioning Mullin's stewardship of DHS resources.
Garcia's Letter Criticizes Unequal Treatment
Garcia highlighted that the previous Coast Guard commandant, Linda Fagan, was fired by President Donald Trump on January 21, 2025, and evicted from the property with only three hours' notice, despite having a waiver. In contrast, Noem has remained in the residence for over a month after her termination. Garcia wrote, 'It is unacceptable that a former secretary who was fired is allowed to remain in a government residence while others have been removed with little notice.'
Noem's Defense and Plans for the Property
Noem, who moved into the home in August 2025, claims she pays rent for the facility and relocated there after details about her previous residence were published. The current Coast Guard commandant, Admiral Kevin Lunday, reportedly plans to move into the house imminently, as he currently resides in the adjacent vice commandant's home. A DHS spokesperson said the department is reviewing the matter and will respond to Garcia's letter.
This controversy adds to Noem's troubled tenure, which included a report that her husband entered a Christian 'sexual health' rehab in January. Garcia's letter demands a response by May 15.
