Every Damn Country: DHS Expanding US Travel Ban?

Kristi Noem, the Secretary of the US Department of Homeland Security, has raised fresh concerns for US visa holders. After a travel ban on 19 countries, she hinted that the restriction could expand to every nation. Her comments have sparked worry across immigrant communities.

Noem’s Viral Post and the Context

In her X post, Noem said she had met Trump and pushed for a “full travel ban on every damn country.” She claimed these nations were sending “killers and leeches” into the US. Her remarks came soon after an Afghan national on humanitarian parole shot two National Guard soldiers near the White House.

Reports of Paused Asylum Pathways

Following the attack, reports suggested that asylum routes from Afghanistan and several African and Middle Eastern countries were being paused. Soon after, Trump ordered a review of all green card holders from 19 “at-risk” countries. India was not on that list.

Talk of Section 212(f)

Noem then hinted that Trump might use Section 212(f) to enforce a wider travel ban. The official DHS account responded to her post with the phrase “EVERY DAMN COUNTRY.” This added to the growing fear among visa holders.

Lawyers Urge Immediate Travel

Immigration lawyers such as Steven Brown and Curtis Morrison advised visa holders to “get on a plane now.” They said this was not fear-mongering but a necessary precaution due to unpredictable decisions from the administration.

Divided Public Response

Supporters praised Noem’s aggressive tone and said it matched their expectations. Critics called the remarks reckless and xenophobic, pointing out that most major US attacks were carried out by citizens, not recent arrivals.

Uncertainty Ahead for Immigrants

Trump is expected to make a decision soon. Until then, Noem’s “every damn country” comment has shifted the mood among immigrants as the winter holidays approach.