DHS ditches Noem-era plan to put shiny wraps on ICE cars and return to covert operations

Source: The Independent

Monday 06 July 2026 16:55 EDT


The Department of Homeland Security has ditched its shiny “Defend the Homeland” branding added to ICE cars under former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem’s leadership — opting to return to vehicles with a lower profile, according to a report. Months after Markwayne Mullin, 48, was confirmed to take over the Department of Homeland Security Secretary role from Noem, 54, the agency has taken on a more low-key approach to the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown, Politico reported.

Several changes have been made under Mullin’s leadership, including the return of unmarked Immigration and Customs Enforcement vehicles as opposed to the flashy fleet used under Noem, which had the words “Defend the Homeland” and “President Donald J. Trump” on the side and rear window.

While Mullin and his deputies are still following Trump’s plan for mass deportations, they are not looking to cause the same level of protests that occurred under Noem’s leadership.

Instead of an onslaught of flashy social media videos and headline-grabbing daytime arrests, Mullin and other administration officials have turned to agreements that allow local and state law enforcement agencies to help identify and detain immigrants already in custody.

Read more: https://www.the-independent.com/news/world/americas/us-politics/ice-dha-noem-cars-covert-operations-b3010034.html