Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has made it clear that she is determined to track down and hold accountable those responsible for leaking sensitive information about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportation efforts. During a recent appearance on CBS’s “Face the Nation,” Noem reiterated her commitment to using polygraph tests in order to identify and punish those responsible for these damaging leaks.
In recent months, there have been several instances of confidential ICE operations and tactics being leaked to the media. These leaks not only jeopardize the safety of ICE officers and their operations, but also undermine the integrity of our immigration system. As Secretary Noem stated, “it’s incredibly dangerous when you have people that are willing to leak classified information to the press. It puts the lives of our agents at risk. It puts the security of our country at risk.”
Polygraph tests, also known as lie detector tests, have long been used by law enforcement agencies to determine the truthfulness of individuals. They measure physiological changes such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration in order to assess the veracity of a person’s statements. While critics argue that these tests are not completely accurate, they have been an invaluable tool in investigations and have helped to uncover crucial information.
Some have questioned the use of polygraph tests in this situation, arguing that they are an invasion of privacy. However, Secretary Noem made it clear that these tests will only be administered to employees who have security clearances and have already signed non-disclosure agreements. This means that they have already agreed to keep sensitive information confidential, and any attempts to disclose that information are a violation of their agreements.
Furthermore, the Secretary also emphasized that these tests will not be used as a “fishing expedition” to try and catch leakers. Instead, they will be used as a targeted tool to identify specific individuals who have leaked information. Noem stated, “We’re not doing this to target everybody. We have very clear criteria in place that we use to make sure that we’re focused on individuals who have already given us reason to suspect that they have participated in leaking classified information.”
The use of polygraph tests in this situation is not a new or radical approach. In fact, they have been used in similar circumstances in the past. In 2017, the Trump administration announced that they would be administering polygraph tests to National Security Council staff in order to combat leaks of classified information. This was met with support from many in the intelligence community who recognized the importance of protecting confidential information.
It is important to note that Secretary Noem’s decision to use polygraph tests is not meant to create an atmosphere of fear and mistrust within the agency. Rather, it is a necessary step to ensure the safety and effectiveness of ICE operations. As Secretary Noem stated, “We have a tremendous respect for the men and women of ICE. They have a very tough job to do and we want to make sure that they can do their job safely and effectively without being put at risk.”
In addition to using polygraph tests, the Department of Homeland Security is also taking other measures to prevent further leaks. This includes increasing oversight and implementing stricter protocols for handling classified information. These efforts are all part of the administration’s commitment to protecting the security and integrity of our nation’s immigration system.
In conclusion, Secretary Kristi Noem’s vow to continue using polygraph tests to track down ICE leakers is a strong and necessary stance in the fight against those who would undermine our national security. These leaks not only endanger the lives of ICE officers but also undermine the important work they do in enforcing our immigration laws. By holding those responsible accountable, Secretary Noem is sending a clear message that the Department of Homeland Security takes the protection of classified information seriously.
