Tricia McLaughlin, the Department of Homeland Security’s lead spokesperson and one of the most visible defenders of President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement strategy, is departing the administration next week, according to multiple reports.

McLaughlin has served as assistant secretary for public affairs at DHS, frequently appearing on national media to articulate the administration’s positions on border security and deportation operations. She delayed her planned exit in December to help manage communications following controversial incidents involving immigration agents in Minnesota, but will now conclude her tenure.

During her time at the department, McLaughlin was a central figure explaining and defending the enhanced enforcement efforts that have become a cornerstone of the Trump administration’s national security agenda.

President Trump publicly praised McLaughlin’s work in December, calling her “wonderful” and commending her depth of experience and communication skills.

Her deputy, Lauren Bis, is expected to succeed her as assistant secretary for public affairs, with Katie Zacharia joining the DHS communications team as deputy assistant secretary, according to reporting.

Before joining DHS, McLaughlin served in the first Trump administration at the State Department and Treasury Department, and held senior communications roles for Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy.

Supporters of the administration’s tough immigration stance see McLaughlin’s tenure as an effective effort to push back on critics and explain the rationale for robust enforcement measures, even as the broader public debate over immigration policy continues.