SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited Puerto Rico on Thursday to assess the U.S. territory’s recovery efforts following devastating hurricanes and persistent power disruptions.
Noem’s visit marked her first to the island as she committed support to expedite the rebuilding process.
In a brief interaction with reporters, she pledged to examine ways the federal government might reduce bureaucratic requirements imposed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to ensure that promised relief is delivered effectively.
FEMA has been a significant financier of Puerto Rico’s reconstruction following Hurricane Maria, which struck the island as a Category 4 storm back in September 2017.
Despite these efforts, Governor Jenniffer González has recently voiced concerns over the delayed release of $18 billion allocated for power grid rehabilitation.
Noem indicated that during discussions with González, they explored strategies to assist in modernizing the island’s energy sources but did not give further specifics, nor did she entertain questions from the press.
Previously, under the leadership of former President Joe Biden, the U.S. Department of Energy channeled millions into solar initiatives across Puerto Rico.
This investment resulted in an increase of over 1,200 megawatts of new renewable energy capacity.
FEMA has earmarked $6 billion to rebuild the power infrastructure, with the agency approving 200 out of more than 440 proposed projects geared toward grid enhancement.
Currently, at least 125 approved projects are in various stages of construction.
González, who is aligned with President Donald Trump, discussed bolstering Puerto Rico’s border security with Noem.
They also explored collaborative opportunities with federal security agencies to counteract criminal enterprises affecting the island.
“We are committed to dismantling these criminal organizations threatening our shores,” González stated, emphasizing the significance of Puerto Rico in this broader initiative.
Noem’s engagement underscores Puerto Rico’s strategic importance in safeguarding both the island and the U.S. mainland.
Noem traveled to the island to honor Michel O. Maceda, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent who tragically lost his life in November 2022 during a confrontation with suspected drug traffickers.
The recent increased apprehensions of alleged undocumented immigrants by federal agents in Puerto Rico have sparked widespread criticism, casting a shadow over her visit.
Noem noted González’s eagerness to foster federal partnerships, emphasizing, “The Department of Homeland Security’s mission is to shield the American homeland, executing its duties with utmost integrity and honor.”
Days before meeting Noem, González visited Washington D.C., advocating for U.S. statehood—an ultimate objective for her New Progressive Party.
Her discussions with Noem centered around reinforcing ties with federal entities, aiming to enhance security and ensure the well-being of all citizens.
