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.
