President-elect Donald Trump has announced that South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem will be his choice to run the Department of Homeland Security, including overseeing the Secret Service. Trump praised Noem’s ability to secure American Homeland from adversaries and restore safety to communities, emphasizing their shared vision for making America safe again.
Noem, who is in her second term as governor, has been a loyal supporter of Trump and played a key role in organizing a Mount Rushmore fireworks show during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite facing controversy over her book, “No Going Back,” where she disclosed shooting a hunting dog and a goat in anger, Noem has continued to garner support within the Republican Party.
Trump’s selection of Noem to lead Homeland Security signals a high level of trust in her, particularly in addressing border and immigration enforcement. Noem has been a proponent of strengthening border security and has deployed National Guard troops to support efforts in Texas.
If confirmed by the Senate, Noem will become the secretary of Homeland Security, elevating Republican Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden to governor for the rest of her term. This appointment also initiates speculation about the 2026 governor race in South Dakota, with potential candidates including U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson and state Attorney General Marty Jackley.
Noem’s nomination has received mixed reactions, with concerns over her controversial book and anecdotes about meeting North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un. Despite these challenges, she remains committed to working with Trump to achieve his administration’s priorities and make American communities safer.
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Photo credit southdakotasearchlight.com
