Tricia McLaughlin, the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is set to leave her position next week. This transition comes as a significant moment for the DHS, where she has been one of the most visible advocates for the administration’s immigration policies. Her departure has been confirmed by DHS leadership and was first reported by Fox News.
In a statement on social media, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem lauded McLaughlin’s dedication and professionalism during her tenure. “Tricia McLaughlin has served with exceptional dedication, tenacity, and professionalism as Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security. She has played an instrumental role in advancing our mission to secure the homeland and keep Americans safe,” Noem stated. She added that while her team would miss McLaughlin, they are grateful for her contributions and wish her success in future endeavors.
McLaughlin also publicly expressed gratitude for her time in government. “I am immensely proud of the team we built and the historic accomplishments achieved by this Administration and the Department of Homeland Security,” she wrote. “I look forward to continuing the fight ahead!”
Her planned departure has been in consideration since December 2025 but was postponed due to several pressing developments within the DHS, including a significant incident in Minneapolis that gained national attention. McLaughlin characterized this incident as “an act of domestic terrorism,” which involved an ICE officer firing “defensive shots” in response to a vehicle allegedly used against law enforcement.
Throughout her time at DHS, McLaughlin emerged as a staunch advocate for aggressive immigration enforcement. She frequently highlighted statistics regarding assaults on federal officers and strongly countered claims made by Democrats about conditions in ICE custody. Her ability to communicate the administration’s positions effectively made her a key figure in DHS public relations.
Before joining the DHS, McLaughlin held various roles, including a position at the Treasury Department during the first term of President Trump under Steven Mnuchin. She also worked at the State Department focusing on arms control and held communications roles for Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. Most recently, she advised Vivek Ramaswamy during the 2024 presidential campaign.
Following McLaughlin’s departure, Katie Zachariah is expected to assume the role of Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs. Zachariah’s appointment marks a new chapter for the DHS as it continues to navigate complex immigration issues and public communication strategies.
