Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was rushed to the hospital in Washington, D.C., on Monday after suffering an unexpected allergic reaction. Emergency responders transported her by ambulance from a federal building just blocks from the Capitol.
Noem, 53, was reportedly alert and talking to medical staff during the ride. According to a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson, the decision to take her in was made “out of an abundance of caution.”
Her condition was not considered life-threatening, and officials confirmed she was released later that evening after receiving treatment.
What We Know So Far
The incident happened late in the afternoon on June 17. People near the scene said Secret Service agents quickly secured the area as paramedics arrived. The hospital where she was treated has not been disclosed, but reports say she was monitored closely before being discharged.
Tricia McLaughlin, a DHS representative, assured the public that Secretary Noem was stable and recovering well. “She was taken to the hospital as a precaution and is expected to be just fine,” McLaughlin said.
Noem’s Recent Workload
Noem, who served as South Dakota’s governor before being appointed to lead Homeland Security in early 2025, has had a packed schedule in recent months.
In March, she traveled to El Salvador to tour the country’s controversial mega-prison. Earlier this month, she was part of a high-profile response to unrest in Los Angeles, backing the deployment of the National Guard.
She’s also been a leading voice in the Trump administration’s efforts to ramp up immigration enforcement, often making headlines for her outspoken approach to border security.
Despite Monday’s health scare, her office says she still plans to travel to New York later this week for a press briefing on airport security and the rollout of the new REAL ID requirements.
What’s Next for Noem
There are no signs that this brief medical episode will slow her down. Her team says she’s back on her feet and looking forward to continuing her work.
It’s unclear what triggered the allergic reaction, but sources close to the situation say she has no known history of severe allergies. The incident caught many by surprise, especially given her usually vigorous public appearances.
