- Secretary Kristi Noem did not back a reality show in which immigrants would compete for United States citizenship, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
- "This is completely false," the organization said in a statement on May 16
- Producer Rob Worsoff, who previously worked on Duck Dynasty, told The Wall Street Journal that he had discussions with members of the DHS about the show idea
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shut down a report that Secretary Kristi Noem backed a reality show in which immigrants would compete for United States citizenship.
The DHS issued a statement relating to the proposed television series on Friday, May 16. Titled "FAKE NEWS FRIDAY: DHS Torches Latest Media Hoax," Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin wrote, "This is completely false. Daily Mail’s ‘reporting’ is an affront to journalism. Secretary Noem has not ‘backed’ nor is even aware of the pitch of any scripted or reality show."
McLaughlin, who is currently working under President Donald Trump's administration, continued, "DHS receives hundreds of television show pitches a year, ranging from documentaries surrounding ICE and CBP border operations to white collar investigations by HSI."
"Each proposal undergoes a thorough vetting process prior to denial or approval. This pitch has not received approval or rejection by staff," she added.
