In a significant move to tighten control over nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) involved in immigration issues, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced a freeze on federal grants to these groups. This decision comes as part of a broader initiative by the Trump administration to enhance border security and address concerns about NGOs allegedly facilitating illegal immigration.
During an appearance on "The Will Cain Show," Noem stated that taxpayer dollars should prioritize the safety of American citizens. She emphasized that many NGOs have been accused of operating both within the United States and across the border in Mexico, assisting individuals in their attempts to enter the country illegally. "They’re not just operating in the United States; they’re operating outside the United States to help make it easier for those who want to break our laws," Noem remarked.
The announcement coincides with legislative efforts by Rep. Lance Gooden (R-Texas) and Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), who are introducing bills aimed at curbing the influence of NGOs that they believe undermine U.S. immigration laws. Gooden’s proposed "Protecting Federal Funds from Human Trafficking and Smuggling Act" would prevent federal contracts and grants from being awarded to organizations unless they certify compliance with federal laws regarding human trafficking and smuggling. Meanwhile, Hagerty’s "Fence Act" seeks to revoke the tax-exempt status of organizations that provide assistance to illegal immigrants.
These legislative proposals reflect ongoing concerns about the role of NGOs during the recent migration crisis at the southern border, where significant federal funding has been allocated to assist migrants. Gooden criticized the misuse of taxpayer dollars, stating, "For years, non-governmental organizations have exploited taxpayer dollars to facilitate illegal immigration under the guise of ‘humanitarian aid.’" He asserted that the exploitation of American taxpayer money would end under the current administration.
Noem’s announcement marks a decisive step in the administration’s strategy to reassess how federal funds are allocated to NGOs. Until a thorough evaluation is conducted, she stated that the Department of Homeland Security will not provide any further funding to these organizations. This freeze aligns with President Trump’s recent executive order to review all federal funding directed to NGOs, as concerns mount over their operations and the potential facilitation of illegal immigration.
As the situation continues to unfold, the implications of these actions could have far-reaching effects on the operations of NGOs across the country and their ability to assist migrants. The administration’s crackdown on funding for these organizations is part of a concerted effort to reshape immigration policy and prioritize border security in the face of ongoing challenges.