Conservative Leaders in Action: Kristi Noem and Jeff Landry at the CPAC Circle Retreat and Gala

On November 4th, the CPAC Circle Retreat and Gala Dinner at the Mar-a-Lago Club spotlighted two conservative leaders at the forefront of America’s fight for stronger borders and safer communities, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry. The two longtime allies discussed ongoing efforts to secure America’s borders and protect communities from the consequences of illegal immigration and the influx of crime. The conversation underscored a consistent theme: conservatives must unite, and real results come from sustained cooperation between federal agencies and state governments.

Secretary Noem opened with an overview of the Department of Homeland Security’s success under the current Trump Administration, a stark contrast from the destructive open-border policies of the past Biden Administration. She reported that illegal border crossings have fallen to levels not seen in decades, a direct result of strengthened enforcement policies and cooperation between the DHS and State government officials. In major cities, DHS task forces have partnered with local police to disrupt trafficking networks, leading to significant reductions in drug-related violence and gang activity. Noem emphasized that effective security does not require sacrificing constitutional freedoms; rather, it demands precision, coordination, and respect for law and order. She credited much of this success to strong partnerships with governors like Landry, noting that their long-standing communication has enabled faster, more targeted responses to emerging threats at both the border and in urban centers.

Governor Landry provided a state-level perspective rooted in his extensive experience in law and public service. A former U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General (JAG) officer and Louisiana’s Attorney General before becoming governor, Landry has spent years challenging federal policies that weaken border enforcement and endanger communities. He highlighted several high-profile lawsuits his office led to block sanctuary city mandates and halt the release of criminal aliens into communities. Throughout his remarks, he returned to a central point: states must have a seat at the table when federal security policies are crafted. His collaboration with Secretary Noem—built through years of joint briefings, strategy sessions, and policy alignment—has been instrumental in ensuring Louisiana’s law enforcement receives the federal support it needs without surrendering local authority.

Secretary Kristi Noem and Governor Jeff Landry’s appearance at the CPAC Circle Retreat and Gala showcased a winning approach to conservative leadership built on action and accountability. Their long-standing relationship, rooted in mutual trust and shared goals, has produced tangible outcomes: safer streets, stronger borders, and a more accountable government. As the nation continues to grapple with challenges surrounding immigration, human trafficking, drugs, and other crimes, their collaboration stands as proof that coordinated, principled leadership delivers results. The message was clear: when Washington and the states work in lockstep, American communities are the ultimate beneficiaries.