Homeland Security Responds to Allegations of Polygraph Testing to Prevent Leaks
Introduction
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been thrust into the spotlight following reports that Secretary Kristi Noem allegedly warned employees about the use of polygraph tests to combat potential leaks regarding upcoming immigration raids.
Internal Directive
Secretary Noem issued an internal directive last week mandating that polygraphs administered by DHS include a question concerning unauthorized communication with media outlets and nonprofit organizations. The directive was reported by Bloomberg Government.
DHS Assistant Secretary’s Statement
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin shared Bloomberg’s story on LinkedIn, along with a caption emphasizing the department’s status as a national security agency and its right to utilize polygraph examinations for personnel. The DHS main account subsequently reposted McLaughlin’s post.
President Trump’s Border Czar Weighs In
President Donald Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan, believes that the ICE raid leaks originated from within the agency. He stated that the first leak in Aurora, Colorado, is currently under investigation and they believe they have identified the responsible individual.
Information Leak Impacts
The leaked information about ICE raids in Aurora, Colorado, and Los Angeles allowed members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua to evade capture. Consequently, federal agents encountered mostly empty apartments and buildings during the raid, although approximately 30 individuals were detained.
Accusations Against FBI
Noem, on the other hand, has accused the FBI of leaking information about the ICE operation in Los Angeles. However, ICE sources have denied knowledge of the source of Noem’s information.
DHS Polygraph Policies
DHS currently conducts polygraph exams during the hiring process for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers and agents to assess employment suitability and support internal and counterintelligence investigations. According to the agency’s website, the federal government uses these exams to gauge applicants’ past behavior, personal connections, and personal integrity. Almost all Border Patrol Agents, Customs and Border Protection Officers, and Air and Marine Operations Agents have successfully passed a Polygraph Exam upon joining CBP.
However, DHS does not require polygraph tests for all employees.
Conclusion
The allegations of polygraph testing to prevent leaks have raised concerns about potential erosion of employee trust and privacy within DHS. The department has defended its actions, citing the need to safeguard classified information and ensure national security. As the investigation into the ICE raid leaks continues, it remains to be seen whether the use of polygraph testing will become more widespread within DHS.
