Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem criticized California Gov. Gavin Newsom for sharing a “very threatening” message about her online, claiming it alarmed her family during a sensitive time following Charlie Kirk’s passing.
The DHS head noted her loved ones became quickly concerned after Newsom’s office tweeted: “Kristi Noem is going to have a bad day today. You’re welcome, America.”
“It was vague and genuinely intimidating,” Noem expressed during an interview on Fox News’ “Hannity” on Monday.
“My family and friends immediately became worried. Within just a few minutes of that post, I started receiving texts and calls. My kids were asking, ‘Are you okay, Mom? Are you all right?’ They’re aware of the threats I’ve faced.”
Kristi Noem commenting on Newsom’s tweet, saying, ‘Kristi Noem is going to have a bad day today. You’re welcome, America.’:
“It was vague; it was genuinely intimidating. It panicked my family and friends almost immediately… pic.twitter.com/1RSaaZg8x5
— Sean Hannity 🇺🇸 (@seanhannity) September 23, 2025
Noem mentioned that her family has been under threat from “cartels and criminals” since she began implementing Trump administration immigration initiatives.
“We live in an era where it’s clear that words can have serious consequences. We have seen tragic outcomes for remarkable individuals like Charlie [Kirk], and it’s a reality that we’ll carry with us indefinitely. I hope this serves as a lesson for everyone,” she further stated.
“We should prioritize listening to one another, engaging in respectful discourse, and ceasing irresponsible messages like the one from Gov. Newsom.”
US Attorney for the Central District, Bill Essayli, has referred the incident to the Secret Service.
“We maintain a strict stance against any direct or implied threats toward public officials,” said Essayli in a statement on X. “I’ve escalated this matter to the @SecretService, requesting a comprehensive threat evaluation.”
