Trump’s Miller Appointment Draws Criticism From Both Parties

President Donald Trump announced the change in a Friday social media post. Miller has a documented history of promoting white nationalist literature and conspiracy theories, according to the article. Democrats on the House Homeland Security Committee called him a “vile, hate-filled extremist,” while House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries described him as a “dangerous xenophobe and reckless extremist” and demanded that Trump fire him.

Rep. Robert Garcia (D-Calif.), in line to chair the House Oversight Committee, said Democrats would continue investigating Miller and challenge his policies in Congress and the courts. Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) called the appointment an affront to voters seeking a change from what she characterized as corruption and cruelty. Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Wis.) and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker also criticized the decision, linking it to the party’s defeat in the 2026 midterm elections. Rep. Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.) warned Miller that the promotion would bring accountability for the harm she said he had caused.

Republicans also objected. Rep. Marlin Stutzman (R-Ind.), who had called for Miller’s firing earlier in the week, called the appointment a “horrible decision.” Outgoing Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.) said it was “not a good choice,” arguing that Miller’s hard-line immigration approach alienated Hispanic voters who supported Trump in 2024 and cost Republicans seats in Texas and Arizona.

Former Pence adviser Olivia Troye condemned the move, while New York Times columnist Jamelle Bouie and MS NOW host Chris Hayes discussed its possible political consequences. Bouie warned that Miller’s appointment posed a danger but could also help Democrats pursue more than 60 Senate seats in 2029. Hayes suggested it could further lower Trump’s approval and improve Democrats’ prospects in 2028.