Bulwark Takes: Episode Summary Title: Chris Murphy Nukes Kristi Noem’s Out-of-Control DHS
Host/Author: The Bulwark
Release Date: May 9, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Bulwark Takes, the team delves into a heated critique by Senator Chris Murphy of Governor Kristi Noem’s management of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Host The Bulwark provides context for Murphy’s strong stance, emphasizing the administration’s alleged overreach and disregard for established laws regarding immigration and border enforcement.

Host's Overview of Chris Murphy’s Critique

The episode opens with the host expressing astonishment at Senator Murphy’s aggressive criticism of Kristi Noem. The host humorously questions whether Noem was genuinely speaking or if it was a mannequin, highlighting the intensity of the remarks (00:00). He outlines the primary accusations against the administration:

• Overspending by DHS: Murphy accuses DHS of depleting funds allocated by Congress, particularly on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and border enforcement, while neglecting other critical areas like aiding lawful immigration processes.

• Violation of the Rule of Law: The host underscores Murphy’s argument that DHS is operating outside legal boundaries, spending beyond its means, and ignoring bipartisan budgets (00:00).

The host emphasizes the importance of Murphy’s clear and succinct breakdown of these issues, stating, “Chris Murphy does a good job of just clearly and succinctly breaking it down for all of us” (00:00).

Detailed Breakdown of Senator Chris Murphy’s Criticisms

1. Overspending and Fiscal Mismanagement (00:00 - 03:03)

Senator Murphy launches his critique by highlighting DHS's financial mismanagement:

• Exceeding Allocated Funds: Murphy states, “You are on track to trigger the Anti Deficiency Act. That means you are going to spend the more money than you've been allocated by Congress. This is a rare occurrence, and it is wildly illegal” (03:03). He warns that DHS may deplete its funds by July, jeopardizing operational capabilities before the fiscal year's end.

• Misallocation of Funds: Murphy points out that while DHS is overspending on ICE and border enforcement, it is neglecting funds designated for programs that assist immigrants in becoming citizens. He argues that this misallocation contradicts claims by MAGA Republicans who purport to support legal immigration: “they have cut the funding for the people that have gotten in line and are doing it the right way who are trying to become citizens” (03:03).

2. Violation of Immigration Laws and Constitutional Rights (03:03 - End)

Murphy delves into how DHS is infringing upon established immigration laws and the constitutional rights of immigrants:

• Ignoring Statutory Requirements: “You are ignoring the immigration laws of this nation, implementing a brand new immigration system that you have invented that has little relation to the statutes that you are required that you are commanded to follow” (03:03). Murphy accuses DHS of overstepping by creating policies that diverge from legally mandated procedures.

• Rights of Immigrants: He emphasizes that immigrants, regardless of their citizenship status, possess constitutional and statutory rights. “They have constitutional and statutory rights when they reside in the United States” (03:03).

• Impoundment of Funds: Murphy criticizes DHS for impounding funds allocated by Congress for specific programs:

  • Shelter and Services Program: “You cannot cancel spending in this program, and you cannot use the funds as you have to fund other things, like ICE” (03:03).

  • Citizenship and Integration Grants: “You have also canceled citizenship and integration grants, which help lawful permanent residents become citizens, helping them take the citizenship test” (03:03).

3. Impact on National Security and Other Critical Areas (03:03 - End)

Murphy argues that DHS's focus on border enforcement has left other national security areas vulnerable:

• Cybersecurity: “You have illegally gutted spending for cybersecurity. As we speak, Russian and Chinese hackers are having a field day attacking our nation” (03:03).

• Disaster Prevention: “You've withdrawn funds for disaster prevention. Storms are going to kill more people in this country because of your illegal withholding of these funds” (03:03).

He asserts that DHS’s narrow focus compromises broader national defenses, exacerbating security threats.

4. Asylum and Humanitarian Concerns (03:03 - End)

Murphy addresses the administration’s stance on asylum:

• Refusal to Process Asylum Claims: “You are refusing to allow people showing up at the southern border to apply for asylum” (03:03). He condemns this as a violation of both law and humanitarian principles.

• Historical Context: Murphy references the bipartisan commitment to asylum laws established to prevent future atrocities: “our asylum law is a bipartisan commitment, an effort to correct for our nation's unconscionable decision to deny entry to Jews to this country who were being hunted and killed by the Nazis” (03:03).

• Humanitarian Risks: He criticizes plans to deport migrants to war-torn regions like Libya: “Sending migrants with pending asylum claims into a war zone just because it's cruel is so deeply disturbing” (03:03).

5. Constitutional and Legislative Overreach (03:03 - End)

Murphy warns of the long-term repercussions of DHS’s actions on democratic institutions:

• Erosion of Congressional Power: “Destroying the power of Congress, eroding individuals constitutional rights” (03:03). He emphasizes that DHS’s disregard for congressional appropriations undermines the legislative branch’s authority.

• Bipartisan Responsibility: He calls for both parties to recognize the gravity of the situation: “This should not be partisan concerns. .... This should matter to both parties” (03:03).

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a strong endorsement of Senator Chris Murphy’s efforts to hold DHS and Kristi Noem accountable for their actions. The host reiterates the importance of public awareness and legislative oversight to prevent DHS from continuing its alleged illegal activities. He asserts that accountability is essential for maintaining the rule of law and protecting constitutional rights.

Notable Quotes

• Host: “Chris Murphy does a good job of just clearly and succinctly breaking it down for all of us.” (00:00)

• Senator Chris Murphy: “You are on track to trigger the Anti Deficiency Act... This is a rare occurrence, and it is wildly illegal.” (03:03)

• Senator Chris Murphy: “They have constitutional and statutory rights when they reside in the United States.” (03:03)

• Senator Chris Murphy: “Sending migrants with pending asylum claims into a war zone just because it's cruel is so deeply disturbing.” (03:03)

• Senator Chris Murphy: “Destroying the power of Congress, eroding individuals constitutional rights... This should matter to both parties.” (03:03)

Key Takeaways

• Fiscal Responsibility: DHS is accused of overspending and misallocating funds designated by Congress, particularly neglecting programs that support lawful immigration.

• Legal Compliance: The administration is criticized for violating immigration laws and constitutional rights, implementing policies without statutory backing.

• National Security Risks: Redirecting funds from cybersecurity and disaster prevention to border enforcement is portrayed as a strategic mistake, increasing vulnerabilities.

• Humanitarian Concerns: Refusal to process asylum claims and plans to deport migrants to unsafe regions are highlighted as ethical and legal failings.

• Democratic Accountability: The episode underscores the necessity of congressional oversight to prevent executive overreach and uphold the rule of law.

This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the episode, detailing Senator Murphy’s robust condemnation of Kristi Noem and DHS’s immigration policies. It highlights the critical points of fiscal mismanagement, legal violations, security oversights, and humanitarian lapses, providing listeners with a clear understanding of the discussions and arguments presented.