WASHINGTON — Former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has continued using a government-owned waterfront mansion in Washington, D.C., nearly two months after her removal from the cabinet, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal.
The property, located on Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, is typically reserved for the commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard — making its use by a civilian political appointee unusual.
Continued Use After Ouster
Noem reportedly remained in the residence following her removal from the Department of Homeland Security in March 2026, when she was replaced as secretary.
She now serves in a different role as a special envoy tied to a Western Hemisphere security initiative, though that position does not traditionally come with military housing.
Officials and observers have noted sightings of Noem at the property in recent weeks, despite no longer holding her previous cabinet role.
Noem Says She Pays Rent
Noem has not directly commented on The Wall Street Journal report regarding her continued use of the residence as of this week. However, during earlier congressional testimony prior to her removal as Homeland Security secretary, she defended the arrangement, telling lawmakers that she pays for the housing.
She said she was not living rent-free, stating, “I rent where I stay and pay personal dollars to do that.”
Noem has also cited security concerns as justification for staying on a military base, pointing to a broader pattern among some high-profile officials who have faced protests or threats at their private residences.
Questions Over Eligibility and Precedent
The arrangement has drawn scrutiny because:
- Homeland Security secretaries are not typically provided military housing
- The home is traditionally designated for the Coast Guard’s top uniformed officer
- Continued use after leaving office raises questions about access and oversight
Current Coast Guard commandant Admiral Kevin Lunday reportedly plans to move into the house Noem is occupying “imminently,” though no timeline has been publicly confirmed.
Former Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Linda Fagan was ordered to vacate her on-base quarters at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling with just three hours’ notice in early February 2025. The directive came roughly two weeks after her dismissal, leaving her unable to pack all of her personal belongings.
Broader Context of Controversy
The housing issue adds to a series of controversies surrounding Noem’s tenure, including criticism over travel spending and use of government resources.
Earlier reports also indicated tension within the administration over expenses tied to aircraft, advertising campaigns, and internal management decisions.
Bottom Line
The report underscores ongoing questions about the use of government property by former officials — particularly when arrangements continue beyond their official role.
For now, Noem maintains she is paying for the residence, but scrutiny is likely to continue as officials weigh whether the arrangement complies with longstanding norms and policies.
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Where is our Commander in Chief in all of this about Noem using government housing designated for military use ?
Kristi Noem & Pam Bondi Both Did An Excellent Job, & Should Never Have Been Fired!