US DHS Chief Calls for ‘Sweeping Immigration Ban’ on Countries Sending ‘Killers and Leeches’ to the US

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem has urged President Donald Trump to impose a sweeping travel ban on countries she accuses of sending “killers, leeches and entitlement junkies” to the United States.

Her call comes amid renewed concern after a shooting near the White House allegedly carried out by an Afghan national, and a broader crackdown on visas and asylum applications.

Who is Kristi Noem?

Kristi Noem is the US Secretary of Homeland Security. She previously served as the Governor of South Dakota and is known for her conservative stances on immigration, border security, and federal policy. Noem has been an outspoken supporter of former President Donald Trump and frequently advocates for stricter US immigration controls.

What Did Kristi Noem Say?

In a post on X, Kristi Noem wrote:

“I am recommending a full travel ban on every damn country that’s been flooding our nation with killers, leeches, and entitlement junkies.”

She added:

“Our forefathers built this nation on blood, sweat, and the unyielding love of freedom — not for foreign invaders to slaughter our heroes, suck dry our hard‑earned tax dollars, or snatch the benefits owed to AMERICANS. WE DON’T WANT THEM. NOT ONE.”

Noem said she proposed meeting with President Trump. The call for a “full travel ban” refers to all countries she claims send dangerous immigrants — although she hasn’t publicly named which nations those are.

What Has Changed? From Visas to Asylum Pause

Recent events suggest the administration is already tightening immigration controls:

• The US government has paused visa issuance for Afghan passport holders.
• The government has also halted all asylum decisions — effectively blocking new asylum claims for now.
• Authorities are reviewing green‑card and refugee applications from several “countries of concern.”

These steps come in the aftermath of a shooting in Washington, DC, allegedly involving an Afghan immigrant, which heightened security concerns and triggered a wave of political reaction.

Trump Migration Ban: Supporters & Critics Views

Supporters view:

Proponents argue the proposed ban is a necessary step for national security. They say it will curb the inflow of undocumented or poorly vetted immigrants who may pose risks to public safety or strain public welfare systems.

Critics view:

Opponents warn that blanket bans can punish innocent people — including refugees and asylum seekers fleeing war or persecution — and may amount to discriminatory, xenophobic policy.

They also argue that broad labels like “killers” or “leeches” are dehumanising and risk targeting entire populations based on nationality, not individual behaviour.