Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's appearance on Laura Ingraham's show on Fox News has sparked widespread discussion and criticism.

The tense exchange focused on Noem's arguably evasive responses regarding the Trump administration's enforcement of immigration laws against sanctuary city leaders, as the Daily Mail reports.

Noem's Attire Makes Headlines

During the broadcast aired on a recent Thursday evening, Noem attended the interview dressed in a full Border Patrol uniform.

This attire, complete with makeup and a militaristic style, led to her being dubbed "ICE Barbie" online.

This week, Noem has worn the same uniform at several other Department of Homeland Security events, underscoring her role which includes overseeing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Tension Over Sanctuary Cities and Immigration Policies

The conversation with Ingraham became notably heated when the topic turned to sanctuary cities -- urban centers like Chicago, Minneapolis, and Boston, whose mayors have publicly refused to cooperate with DHS in apprehending criminal migrants.

Despite Ingraham's repeated probing, Noem circled direct answers, focusing instead on general statements about enforcement actions under President Trump's administration.

Since President Donald Trump took office, ICE has arrested over 7,500 aliens as part of an ongoing deportation initiative. Noem, defending these actions, remarked on the challenges posed by sanctuary city policies, which she claimed, "limit some of our tools that we want in our toolbox."

Ingraham Presses Noem on Consequences for Mayors

Ingraham repeatedly questioned whether mayors interfering with ICE operations would face personal repercussions, pushing for a clear stance three times during the interview.

Initially evasive, Noem finally asserted, "Nobody is above the law. Of course, we will," indicating possible legal actions against such mayors, though she stressed that any decision would depend on directives from above.

Earlier last week, Noem participated in DEA-supported ICE-led raids in New York, targeting migrants with criminal records, an event that underscores her brief's seriousness.

Moreover, the day after the raids, she appeared alongside President Trump at the White House for the signing of the Laken Riley Act, further aligning herself with the administration's tough stance on immigration enforcement.

Public and Media Reaction to Noem's Interview

Public and media reactions to Noem's appearance and responses during the interview have been mixed.

Some criticized her for the uniform choice, feeling it was more a symbol than practical attire for an interview.

Others focused on her lack of direct responses to critical questions about handling sanctuary city leaders, seeing it as an avoidance of tough decision-making in her role.

Noem elaborated slightly near the interview's end, hinting at ongoing strategic discussions at the federal level.

She articulated, "They are limiting some of the tools that we want in our toolbox, but we’re going to continue to go in and use our operations and then show in other cities how it’s working and tell our story to the American people."

This incident on national television not only highlights the ongoing national debate over immigration policy and sanctuary cities but also spotlights the personal style and political tactics of a high-profile Trump administration official faced with enforcing controversial policies.

As such, Secretary Noem's actions and attire continue to be a focal point of discussion as the administration further defines its stance on immigration and law enforcement cooperation across the United States.