Experts say this development underscores Trump's administration focus on strengthening national security amid evolving domestic and international challenges.

In a major Cabinet shake-up, President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that he has fired Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, citing ongoing challenges within the department.

CBI News reports that the decision marks the first significant personnel change in Trump's second term and comes just days after Noem endured intense scrutiny during congressional hearings.

Trump made the announcement via social media, stating that Noem would be transitioning out of her role. He praised her past contributions but emphasized the need for fresh leadership to address pressing issues like immigration enforcement and disaster management.

In her place, the president nominated Oklahoma Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin, a move seen as an effort to bolster the department's operations with congressional experience.

Noem, the former South Dakota governor who spearheaded Trump's aggressive immigration policies, faced mounting criticism over the department's handling of border security operations and responses to recent natural disasters.

During a two-day grilling on Capitol Hill earlier this week, lawmakers from both parties questioned her strategies, including the controversial "Operation Metro Surge" in Minneapolis and broader concerns about threats to the homeland.

In a statement following the announcement, Noem expressed her commitment to coordinating with federal partners on ongoing security matters but did not directly address her departure. Analysts suggest the firing reflects Trump's impatience with perceived inefficiencies in key areas of his administration's agenda.

The nomination of Mullin, a vocal supporter of Trump's policies, now heads to the Senate for confirmation. If approved, he would oversee one of the largest federal agencies, responsible for cybersecurity, counterterrorism, and immigration.