During a recent visit to El Salvador’s Terrorism Confinement Center, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem attracted considerable social media scrutiny due to her choice of jewelry—an extravagant gold Rolex Cosmograph Daytona valued at approximately $50,000. The visit occurred as discussions about the deportation of Venezuelans intensified, with the backdrop of the controversial prison underscoring Noem's fashion faux pas. Critics took to platforms to question the appropriateness of showcasing such wealth in a setting as dire as Cecot, which houses thousands of inmates. Despite criticism, an official statement suggested the watch was intended as a future heirloom, a justification that failed to quell the ongoing backlash.
Kristi Noem's Rolex Raises Eyebrows During El Salvador Prison Visit
Kristi Noem's Rolex Raises Eyebrows During El Salvador Prison Visit
Homeland Security Secretary dons luxury timepiece amidst controversial backdrop at notorious prison.
Kristi Noem, serving as the homeland security secretary, made a notable impact during her visit to El Salvador's notorious Terrorist Confinement Center on Wednesday, where she was seen sporting a white long-sleeve top, gray slacks, and a significant accessory—a gold Rolex Cosmograph Daytona worth about $50,000. The prison, known as Cecot, recently became a critical focal point as the Trump administration faced legal hurdles in their attempts to deport Venezuelan citizens.
During her visit, as Noem recorded a video in front of tightly packed prisoners, her luxury watch drew sharp criticism online. Commenters expressed disdain for the juxtaposition of her opulent timepiece against the grim backdrop of the prison, which was opened in 2023 and aimed to accommodate up to 40,000 inmates amid president Nayib Bukele's controversial anti-gang policies.
Amidst rising condemnations, Homeland Security's assistant secretary for public affairs, Tricia McLaughlin, defended Noem's choice, noting that the watch was purchased with the proceeds from her books and intended to be a family heirloom. However, this explanation did little to alleviate concerns regarding the optics of her visit and the appropriateness of flaunting wealth in such a somber environment.
In summary, Noem's visit not only spotlighted the critical issues surrounding deportation practices but also highlighted the importance of appropriate conduct in sensitive settings—a lesson perhaps lost amidst the shine of her costly wristwear.
During her visit, as Noem recorded a video in front of tightly packed prisoners, her luxury watch drew sharp criticism online. Commenters expressed disdain for the juxtaposition of her opulent timepiece against the grim backdrop of the prison, which was opened in 2023 and aimed to accommodate up to 40,000 inmates amid president Nayib Bukele's controversial anti-gang policies.
Amidst rising condemnations, Homeland Security's assistant secretary for public affairs, Tricia McLaughlin, defended Noem's choice, noting that the watch was purchased with the proceeds from her books and intended to be a family heirloom. However, this explanation did little to alleviate concerns regarding the optics of her visit and the appropriateness of flaunting wealth in such a somber environment.
In summary, Noem's visit not only spotlighted the critical issues surrounding deportation practices but also highlighted the importance of appropriate conduct in sensitive settings—a lesson perhaps lost amidst the shine of her costly wristwear.
