DHS Chief Accused of "Systematic Obstruction" by Own Watchdog

A top government investigator has accused Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem of blocking his work. The accusation came in a letter from the Department of Homeland Security's Inspector General to Congress. In it, the inspector general states that Noem has "systematically obstructed" his office's investigations. The inspector general is an independent official. Their role is to audit and investigate the department for waste, fraud, and abuse. Secretary Noem has strongly denied the claim. She says her office has fully cooperated with the watchdog. The letter did not provide specific examples of the alleged obstruction. The conflict highlights rising tensions between Noem and the internal agency meant to oversee her department's conduct.