Trump expected to choose South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem for Homeland Security secretary, source says

Noem, a Republican, would be the first woman to lead the department if confirmed

President Donald Trump is expected to nominate South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem to be the next secretary of Homeland Security, a source familiar with the matter told CNN on Wednesday.

Noem, a Republican who has been a vocal supporter of Trump, would be the first woman to lead the department if confirmed.

The Department of Homeland Security is responsible for protecting the United States from terrorist attacks and other threats to national security. The secretary of Homeland Security is a member of the president's cabinet.

Noem has been a strong supporter of Trump's immigration policies, including the construction of a wall on the southern border with Mexico. She has also been a vocal critic of sanctuary cities, which refuse to cooperate with federal immigration authorities.

Noem's nomination would likely face opposition from Democrats in the Senate, who have criticized her record on immigration and other issues. However, she is likely to be confirmed by the Republican-controlled Senate.

If confirmed, Noem would become the first woman to lead the Department of Homeland Security. She would also be the first governor to serve as secretary of Homeland Security since Tom Ridge, who was appointed by President George W. Bush in 2003.