Kristi Noem, the Homeland Security Secretary often nicknamed “ICE Barbie” for her flashy media presence, has come up with an idea that sounds almost too wild to be true—a reality TV show where immigrants compete for a fast track to U.S. citizenship.
While it might sound like a joke or a stunt, this concept is very real and part of a detailed 35-page pitch tied directly to her office.
The American Reality Show Concept and Its Creator
The show, titled The American, was dreamed up by Rob Worsoff, a television writer and producer known for hits like Duck Dynasty and Millionaire Matchmaker.
The premise: immigrants from around the world travel across the U.S. by train, competing in challenges inspired by regional cultures—like log rolling in Wisconsin or mining for gold in California.
Worsoff’s pitch describes contestants meeting “interesting Americans” in each state, learning about local history and culture, and sharing their personal stories of why they want to become citizens.
The ultimate prize? The winner would be sworn in on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, symbolizing the American dream realized.
Official Support and Controversy Within DHS
DailyMail.com learned that Noem supports the project and is pushing to get it greenlit, possibly by a major streaming platform like Netflix.
The Department of Homeland Security has been reviewing the proposal and even held talks with the producer recently, although Noem reportedly hasn’t been officially briefed yet.
While some insiders within DHS see the show as a positive way to showcase the immigration journey, others worry it could come across as exploitative, turning a serious and emotional process into entertainment.
Critics argue Noem’s media-friendly approach risks overshadowing the agency’s core mission—enforcing immigration laws.
How the Show Would Work: From Ellis Island to Capitol Hill
According to the pitch, contestants would arrive at Ellis Island aboard a symbolic “Citizenship Ship” and be welcomed by a famous naturalized American host—names like Sofia Vergara, Ryan Reynolds, and Mila Kunis were suggested.
They’d receive personalized gifts and then embark on their journey by train, competing in regionally themed challenges.
Episodes would feature everything from building rockets in Cape Canaveral to rafting the Arkansas River, culminating in a live finale in Washington, D.C., where the winner is sworn in as a new citizen amid dramatic fanfare.
Noem’s History of Media Stunts and Criticism
This isn’t the first time Noem’s love for the spotlight has caused a stir.
Since taking charge at Homeland Security, she’s become known for dramatic photo ops and social media posts that some say prioritize style over substance.
From donning bulletproof vests in awkward photos to flaunting expensive watches during tense prison visits, Noem’s critics accuse her of focusing more on self-promotion than on delivering results—particularly on President Trump’s signature promise to deport millions of illegal immigrants.
Internal Concerns and Mixed Reactions
Within the agency, some see Noem as more of a spokesperson or figurehead than a decisive leader.
She’s introduced controversial measures like lie detector tests to root out disloyalty and pushed for voluntary staff departures, moves that have unsettled many employees.
Still, despite the controversy and criticism, the administration’s policies have coincided with a significant drop in illegal border crossings, reaching the lowest levels seen in decades.