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Even MAGAs Are Disgusted After ‘Libs of TikTok’ Creator Joins Kristi Noem’s ICE Ride-Along and Photo Op

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In a recent display that blurred the lines between governance and cosplay, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Libs of TikTok creator Chaya Raichik participated in an ICE raid in Arizona, donning tactical gear and sharing footage on social media. Noem, equipped with an assault rifle, and Raichik, wearing a police vest and ICE badge, documented the arrests of alleged “criminal illegal aliens,” raising concerns about the politicization of law enforcement activities.

The event, intended to showcase a tough stance on immigration, instead sparked criticism across the political spectrum. Even conservative commentator Megyn Kelly expressed disapproval, urging Noem to cease “cosplaying” as an ICE agent and to refrain from glamorizing such operations.

“Can we talk about Kristi Noem and these ridiculous photo ops? Why does she have to keep doing this?” Kelly wondered on her show this week.

“I can’t stand these photo ops, you guys. I think they diminish ICE, they diminish DHS, CPB. She’s not an agent! She is an administrative policy person appointed by Trump because she was very loyal to him,” she continued. “Stop with the glam! I mean, she looks like I look right now, but she’s out in the field with her gun, being like we’re gonna go kick some ass! No one wants you there.”

This incident follows a pattern of controversial actions by Noem, including a previous video filmed in front of a crowded prison cell in El Salvador, which drew backlash for its perceived insensitivity. The recent ICE raid ride-along further fuels the debate over the appropriate role of public officials in law enforcement activities and the potential risks of politicizing such operations.

Critics argue that involving social media influencers in sensitive law enforcement actions undermines the seriousness of these operations and raises ethical concerns. The portrayal of arrests on social media platforms may compromise the dignity and rights of those involved, and the presence of non-official participants could pose safety risks.

Raichik, who vaulted to conservative fame in recent years for her aggressive anti-trans social media posts, and her love of “owning the libs”, has also found herself in the line of MAGA fire for her part in the ICE raid photo-op. Much of that anger, it seems, is due to the far-right already growing a bit disenchanted with the administration deporting fewer migrants than President Joe Biden when they thought Trump would have already cleared out millions of immigrants.

“This shit enrages me. Deportation numbers are low, denying that is wrong,” one ultra-conservative social media personality reacted. “Instead, we’re bringing libsoftiktok along in a circus event.”

As the Trump administration continues to emphasize stringent immigration policies, the methods of communication and enforcement remain under scrutiny. The blending of political messaging with law enforcement activities, particularly when disseminated through social media, challenges traditional norms and prompts discussions about the boundaries between governance, public relations, and entertainment.

The recent ICE raid involving Secretary Noem and Chaya Raichik highlights the complexities and controversies surrounding the intersection of politics, law enforcement, and media. The event serves as a case study in the potential pitfalls of politicizing sensitive operations and the importance of maintaining professionalism and ethical standards in public service.

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