Since taking on her role, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has been seen as tough, fearless, and dedicated to implementing Donald Trump’s vision. What hasn’t been widely discussed is her talent as a painter.

Yet, on Tuesday, she was skillfully painting the border wall. The wall is being coated in a specific color—or more accurately, a non-color—based on the president’s request. Trump has decided it should be black:

🚨 LMAO! Democrats are currently losing their minds over President Trump and Kristi Noem painting the southern border wall BLACK so it absorbs heat from the sun.

It’s being done so the criminals would burn their hands to the touch if they even tried.

Genius move. 🔥🤣 pic.twitter.com/U0zGOuW6lm

— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) August 19, 2025

Why black? Well if you’ve ever worn a black shirt on a scorching day, or sat in a black car in the baking sun, you might know the answer:

During a presentation in Santa Teresa, New Mexico, near the southern border wall, Noem explained that the wall will be painted black to serve two purposes: it will become hotter and harder to climb, and it will also extend the life of the metal.

Noem said the new paintwork comes at the request of President Donald Trump.

Although the wall is already tall, she explained, painting it in this manner will make it even more difficult to pass:

“The structure behind me is tall, making it nearly impossible to climb. It also extends deep into the ground, making it difficult, if not impossible, to dig under. Today, we’re also going to paint it black,” said Noem.

Watch:

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated the entire southern border wall will be painted black so it will heat up in the sun and “make it even tougher to climb.”

“That is specifically at the request of the president.” pic.twitter.com/rZZZhZ3SVx

— ABC News (@ABC) August 19, 2025