Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem criticized California Gov. Gavin Newsom for issuing a “really menacing” warning directed at her online, which she claims caused fear among her family following Charlie Kirk’s passing.
Noem explained that her close ones became anxious after Newsom’s office shared a message over the weekend reading: “Kristi Noem is going to have a bad day today. You’re welcome, America.”
“It was cryptic and it was really menacing,” Noem’s told Fox News’ “Hannity” on Monday.
“It caused immediate concern for my family and friends. Within a mere couple of minutes of it being posted, I began receiving text messages and phone calls. Family, my children asking, ‘Are you okay, Mom? Are you alright?’ They are aware of the threats I’ve been facing.”
Noem mentioned that her family is cognizant of the threats they’ve encountered from “cartels and criminals” ever since she implemented immigration policies from the Trump administration.
“We are in an era where words have significant weight, and there have been serious outcomes, as seen with incredible individuals like Charlie [Kirk], that we will have to bear forever. I hope this serves as a lesson for everyone,” she remarked.
“I hope we all learn that it’s time to start listening to each other, having civil discourse, and stop ridiculous, irresponsible posts like Governor Newsom put out there.”
US Attorney for the Central District of California, Bill Essayli, has since referred Newsom’s post to the Secret Service.
“We have zero tolerance for direct or implicit threats against government officials,” Essayli said in an X statement. “I’ve referred this matter to @SecretService and requested a full threat assessment.”
