Following the devastating New Year's Day attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry is pressing for the immediate confirmation of Kristi Noem as Secretary of Homeland Security. Landry emphasized the urgency of the situation, citing the need for strong leadership in the wake of the tragedy. He is scheduled to meet with President Biden to request a Presidential Disaster Declaration to aid the city in recovering and preparing for upcoming large-scale events like the Super Bowl and Mardi Gras.

The attack, which involved a suspect driving a truck into a crowd of revelers, resulted in at least 14 fatalities and numerous injuries. The suspect, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, was armed and subsequently killed in an exchange of gunfire with police. Landry's letter to President Biden underscored the strain the attack has placed on local and state resources, particularly given the upcoming influx of tourists for major events.

From left to right, Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry, President Biden and South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem. (Getty Images)

Landry's call for Noem's confirmation echoes similar sentiments expressed by law enforcement organizations across the country. These groups have voiced their support for Noem's leadership, particularly in addressing border security and combating the influx of illegal narcotics. Trump nominated Noem for the position following his victory over Vice President Kamala Harris. The DHS plays a crucial role in national security, overseeing agencies such as Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Secret Service, and FEMA.

Military personnel walk down Bourbon Street on Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025 in New Orleans. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

Law enforcement officers from multiple agencies work the scene on Bourbon Street after at least 14 people were killed when a person allegedly drove into the crowd in the early morning hours of New Year's Day on Jan. 1, 2025 in New Orleans. (Michael DeMocker/Getty Images)

Former President Donald Trump greets South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem at the South Dakota Republican Party Monumental Leaders rally on Friday, Sept. 8, 2023 in Rapid City, South Dakota. (AP Photo/Toby Brusseau)