Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited the southern border in Del Rio, Texas, for the first time since her confirmation, riding on horseback with Border Patrol agents. Noem expressed support for the agents and criticized her predecessor, Alejandro Mayorkas, for not allowing them to do their jobs effectively. The number of illegal crossings in Del Rio decreased significantly after President Trump took office.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris falsely accused border agents of whipping Haitian migrants in Del Rio in 2021, a claim that was debunked by both the photographer who took the pictures and a Customs and Border Protection investigation. Despite the false accusations being exposed, Harris has never apologized for her statements. The agent in the photograph went on to win a Border Patrol Achievement award.

Noem praised the Border Patrol agents for being “energized and happy” to do their jobs and keep America safe. The visit to Del Rio highlighted the contrast between the current administration’s approach to border security and the previous administration’s policies. Harris’s false accusations and lack of apology have drawn criticism and raised questions about her credibility.