By Staff Writer | May 6, 2025
Washington, D.C. — Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has publicly urged the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate Democratic Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) for her recent actions related to undocumented immigrants. Noem’s call for an investigation centers on a February 12 virtual event hosted by Ocasio-Cortez titled “Know Your Rights With ICE,” during which she provided guidance to undocumented individuals on how to respond during encounters with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.
In a segment on Fox News’ “Hannity,” Noem stated, “I think the Department of Justice absolutely should look into this situation.” She further criticized Ocasio-Cortez’s actions, suggesting that public officials have been willing to “break the law to facilitate the invasion that has happened and allow criminals to stay here.” Noem also referenced instances where judges have taken actions to protect individuals she described as “criminals,” emphasizing the need to “stand for what’s right” .
The controversy intensified when Ocasio-Cortez responded to Tom Homan, the Trump administration’s border czar, who had indicated plans to refer her to the DOJ over her webinar. During a town hall in Jackson Heights, Queens, Ocasio-Cortez challenged Homan, saying, “To that I say: Come for me. Do I look like I care?”
The “Know Your Rights With ICE” webinar aimed to educate undocumented immigrants about their constitutional protections during interactions with ICE. Ocasio-Cortez’s office has defended the event, asserting that it was intended to inform individuals of their rights and ensure they are treated fairly under the law.
Critics, including Noem and Homan, argue that such guidance could be interpreted as obstruction of federal immigration enforcement efforts. Homan has stated that he began working with the DOJ to determine whether Ocasio-Cortez’s actions could be construed as aiding and abetting individuals in evading immigration laws .
This development has sparked a broader debate over the balance between free speech, the rights of undocumented immigrants, and the enforcement of immigration laws. Supporters of Ocasio-Cortez contend that her actions were within her First Amendment rights and aimed at protecting vulnerable populations from potential overreach by federal authorities.
As of now, the DOJ has not publicly commented on the matter, and it remains to be seen whether an official investigation will be launched.
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