South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem sparked controversy after claiming that migrant children who cross the border illegally into the U.S. make the “choice” to do so. During an interview on Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan, Noem defended strict immigration policies and insisted that families have options regarding their entry into the country.
When asked about the Trump administration’s past immigration policies, including detaining undocumented families, Noem stated, “Everyone has an option. They can choose to be here legally or illegally, and they can also self-deport.” Brennan pushed back, arguing that children do not have a choice in such situations, but Noem interrupted, saying, “Well, the kids do have a choice. If they have parents, they make a choice to keep their families together, if they want to or not.”
Noem denied that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is actively reviving family separation policies but blamed President Biden for failing to enforce immigration laws. She argued that consequences are necessary for those who enter the country illegally.
However, Democratic Representative Jasmine Crockett of Texas rejected Noem’s stance, emphasizing that illegal entry into the U.S. is a civil violation, not a criminal offense. Speaking on The Katie Phang Show, Crockett criticized Republicans for pushing a tough-on-immigration narrative while supporting former President Donald Trump. “They want local law enforcement to round up people on civil accusations instead of focusing on real criminals,” she said.
The debate over immigration enforcement continues to divide political leaders, with some supporting stricter policies while others warn about the humanitarian impact and legal misrepresentations surrounding the issue.