A peculiar event has recently unsettled the political atmosphere of Washington. Kristi Noem, the chairperson for the Department of Homeland Security, became a victim of theft while eating out with her family at a local joint known as Capital Burger. In a swift act, a robber stole her purse from beneath her seat while she was distracted. The stolen purse happened to be a treasure trove for the offender. It held important items such as Ms. Noem’s driver’s license, medications, apartment keys, unused checks, official department badge, passport, and an astonishing amount of $3,000 in cash.
The irony of the incident, a high-ranking official tasked with overseeing the nation’s border security and counter-terrorism efforts was robbed in broad daylight, was not lost on the public. This event taking place with Ms. Noem, among all cabinet officials, amplified the theatrical aspect of the whole episode. Known for her conspicuous personality in an administration filled with flamboyant figures, Noem is never one to shy away from attention.
She came into the limelight last year as she shared a controversial story in her autobiography where she had to take the difficult decision to put down her ‘untrainable’ and ‘dangerous’ dog. Another incident that brought her into the limelight happened recently when she was photographed wearing a high-priced $50,000 gold Rolex Cosmograph Daytona watch during a visit to a notorious prison in El Salvador.
As a part of her official duties in her role as homeland security secretary, she has an inclination towards the dramatic. Her photos and videos frequently demonstrate her in tactical attire, brandishing firearms, or assisting border patrol agents during missions to arrest migrants.
The incident of her purse being stolen became a widely-known piece of gossip among those who frequent Capital Burger during lunch hours. This popular establishment is situated near the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and is a favorite among the locals and tourists alike. They offer an eclectic menu that boasts of options such as an oversized pretzel and ‘kung pao’ brussels sprouts.
John Lauck, a 28-year old military professional visiting from Texas gave his take on the authoratative yet peculiar incident saying, ‘It’s a bit strange.’ His puzzled expression conveying his disbelief as he added, ‘I don’t know why anyone would carry that much cash on them.’