Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen testified before the House Judiciary Committee Thursday in what easily could be called a contentious hearing.
The Secretary, who has long been rumored to be one of President Trump’s top targets for firing, did not prove to be an expert at her job before House Representatives either.
At one point, upon being questioned by Rep. David Cicilline (D-RI), the Secretary was forced to admit she has no idea how many migrant children have died while in her custody – not even “a rough idea.”
“Madam Secretary, did I understand you correctly to say that as you sit here today, you do not know how many human beings have died while in the custody of the department that you lead?”
“And you, in preparation for today’s hearing, you didn’t ascertain that number, but you don’t know it today?” he asked.
“I don’t have an exact figure for you,” Secretary Nielsen cooly replied.
“Do you have a rough idea?” Cicilline demanded.
“Sir, what I can tell you is –” Nielsen replied.
“I’m talking about people who have died in your custody. You don’t have the number?” he exclaimed.
“I will get back to you with the number,” Sec. Nielsen, clearly not pleased about the line of inquiry, responded condescendingly.
Her admission comes just 12 days after many across the nation mourned the death of 7-year old Jakelin Caal of Guatemala, who was brought to America to seek asylum by her father. Jakelin was not given water for 8 hours, before a 90-minute bus ride. Two days later, she died.