Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) said the Republican Party has “lost the debate” on immigration, criticizing the way DHS handled deportations under Kristi Noem.

Tillis argued that while the U.S. should focus on deporting illegal immigrants, resources should target the most dangerous individuals first.

He specifically cited incidents in Minneapolis where federal officers fatally shot U.S. citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti, saying the approach under Noem was flawed.

Tillis praised President Trump’s nomination of Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) to replace Noem, expressing hope that Mullin will fix problems and focus on dangerous criminals rather than broad deportations, The Hill has reported.

He emphasized the need to balance law enforcement with accountability, criticizing Noem for failing to admit mistakes and deliver on promised priorities.