Houston Daily

U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul (R-Texas), vice chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security, questioned Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem during a hearing focused on worldwide threats to the homeland. The discussion centered on the administration's work to secure air, land, and sea borders.

During the exchange, McCaul reflected on border security under different administrations. He said, "This hearing reminds me of the novel 'A Tale of Two Cities.' The [Democrats] see it as the worst of times, but I see it really as the best of times. And what do I mean by that? Under the Biden administration, 15 to 20 million illegal aliens — unvetted as you indicated — came into this country. What I think is most disturbing is director Kent's testimony: 18,000 known or suspected terrorists got into this country under the Biden administration."

He continued by referencing past actions: "That’s why we impeached Mayorkas. I was one of the managers. He told his Border Patrol [agents]: you don’t have to pay attention to federal law when it says 'shall' detain aggravated felons. He disregards our law and says: you know what? 'May detain. It’s discretionary.' And guess what? We have thousands of aggravated felons now … in this country today. That was the worst of times."

McCaul contrasted these remarks with his assessment of current border security efforts: "[This is] the most secure border I’ve seen in my 22 years of Congress... The daily crossings are 95% down from the prior administration." He also noted an end to catch and release policies: "Zero catch and release... Twenty-two years later, we finally have achieved that goal... America is safer today."

He addressed maritime threats and recent actions against foreign vessels: "And when I look at the Venezuelan vessels attacked, the president had every right under the Constitution — Article II — [in] international waters, [with] cartels designated as FTOs... If that’s not self-defense, I don’t know what is." McCaul also thanked Secretary Noem for action taken against an Iranian oil tanker violating sanctions.

Turning to airspace security concerns related to major events such as FIFA matches and national celebrations like America’s 250th anniversary, McCaul stated: "Drones are the biggest threat as I see it... With the new NDAA authorization to allow federal and state and locals to work together to identify hostile adversary drones, and take them down, can you tell me how that will impact your ability...to better secure these special events?"

Secretary Noem responded by acknowledging gaps in counter-drone authority and thanking McCaul for supporting relevant legislation: "The counter drone and drone technology that is out there today, frankly our authorities haven’t kept up with. And so thank you for that legislation. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to truly defend the homeland." She outlined plans for significant investment in drone technology at DHS—upwards of $1.5 billion—and described cooperation with cities and states for event security.

Noem explained further measures being taken at large-scale events such as FIFA matches hosted across eleven U.S. cities, along with other national celebrations like Mardi Gras.

The hearing concluded with McCaul expressing interest in continued collaboration regarding counter-drone technologies.

Michael McCaul has a history of electoral success in Texas's 10th Congressional District:

- In 2024 he won reelection against Theresa Boisseau.

- In previous cycles he defeated Linda Nuno (2022), Mike Siegel (2020 & 2018), Tawana Walter-Cadien (2016 & 2014).