Mayorkas says he’s spoken ‘substantively’ with Noem ‘a number of times’

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said he has spoken “substantively” with President-elect Trump’s choice to fill his seat, Gov. Kristi Noem (R-S.D.).

Mayorkas joined ABC’s “This Week,” where he was asked about the administration transition. Noem was nominated by Trump to lead DHS, if she is confirmed by the Senate.

“I have spoken with Governor Noem a number of times, including on New Year’s Day and immediately thereafter, with respect to the horrific terrorist attack,” Mayorkas said Sunday.

He was referencing the terror attack in New Orleans, where a man rammed a pickup truck down busy Bourbon Street early Wednesday, killing 14 people and injuring many more.

“We have spoken substantively about the measures that we take, and I am incredibly devoted to a smooth and successful transition to the success of Governor Noem, should she be confirmed as the Secretary of Homeland Security,” Mayorkas said.

He said he appreciated Noem’s “focus” on the issues they discussed.

Noem’s nomination comes after she was previously floated to be Trump’s running mate and spent the year focused on immigration. She sent South Dakota National Guard troops to the southern border and has supported Trump’s sprawling immigration plans.

Trump’s pick of Noem is one of his latest signs he intends to take a hard stance on immigration policy, including implementing the mass deportation plan he campaigned on.