In an explosive moment that has already sent shockwaves through Washington, former President Donald Trump publicly urged his newly appointed Department of Homeland Security Secretary, Kristi Noem, to “look into arresting” her predecessor, Alejandro Mayorkas, during a live TV interview last night.
Appearing together on a prime-time conservative news broadcast, Trump turned to Noem — who was recently tapped as his pick for DHS Secretary if he retakes the White House — and delivered the stunning remark with millions watching.
“Kristi, I think you should really take a look at arresting Mayorkas,” Trump said, wagging his finger. “He’s done more to destroy this country’s borders than anyone in history. He should be held accountable — maybe even in handcuffs.”
Noem, who looked momentarily caught off guard, nodded and responded that “everything is on the table” when it comes to restoring border security and holding previous officials responsible for what Trump called “the invasion at our southern border.”
Mayorkas, who served as DHS Secretary under President Biden, has long been a lightning rod for Republican anger over record migrant crossings and what conservatives describe as an “open border” policy. Trump has repeatedly called for Mayorkas to be impeached or prosecuted, but this is the first time he’s directly floated the idea of an arrest — and done so live on national television.
Legal experts were quick to point out that while impeachment and removal from office are legislative actions, ordering the arrest of a former Cabinet official would likely trigger a fierce constitutional battle over executive power and due process.
Meanwhile, Democrats condemned the comment immediately. A senior aide for Mayorkas called Trump’s words “unhinged” and accused him of “turning DHS into a political weapon to punish opponents.”
Trump’s base, however, erupted in cheers online, with #ArrestMayorkas trending within minutes. Some hardline conservatives praised Noem for not pushing back and signaled that this kind of tough talk is exactly what they want to hear as the 2025 election cycle heats up.
So far, Mayorkas has not responded publicly, but close allies say he is consulting with legal advisors and weighing whether to issue a statement or ignore what one confidant described as “Trump’s empty threats.”
