South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has reportedly been chosen by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the federal Department of Homeland Security, as reported by several media outlets including CNN. The announcement comes from individuals close to the situation, although Noem’s office has not provided an immediate comment.
At 52 years old, Noem is currently completing her second term as governor, but due to term limits, she will not be able to seek re-election in 2026. Before her tenure as governor, she served four terms in the U.S. House of Representatives and has been a staunch ally of Trump, particularly since convincing him to attend a fireworks show at Mount Rushmore amid the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
Noem has recently faced scrutiny due to the release of her book, “No Going Back,” which includes controversial stories such as the accidental shooting of a hunting dog and a goat, along with a retracted claim of meeting North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. These revelations led to significant media backlash and ridicule during her book tour. However, she later gained visibility when she spoke at the Republican National Convention, which enhanced her profile as a possible candidate for a role in Trump’s administration.
Political analysts see Noem’s potential appointment as a testament to her loyalty to Trump. Jon Schaff, a political science professor, indicated that her selection signals Trump’s trust in her capabilities, particularly in relation to her commitment to border security, which has been a prominent issue during his presidency.
Trump has also appointed Tom Homan as “border czar,” aiming to fulfill campaign promises regarding stricter immigration policies. As the new head of the Department of Homeland Security, Noem would oversee critical areas such as immigration enforcement, disaster response, and cybersecurity.
In the event of Senate confirmation required for her appointment, Noem may face challenging questions regarding her book and the claims it contained. Additionally, Noem’s potential departure would elevate Republican Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden to the position of governor, paving the way for a competitive race for the 2026 Republican gubernatorial nomination.
This development highlights a shifting political landscape in South Dakota and the potential for new leadership opportunities. With a combination of loyalty to Trump and a focus on critical national issues, Noem’s appointment may reflect a proactive approach to reshaping homeland security policies moving forward.
In summary, Kristi Noem’s prospective role as Homeland Security chief encapsulates her political journey, reflecting both the challenges and opportunities that arise from her close association with Trump. This could signify a new chapter for South Dakota politics, presenting an opportunity for fresh leaders to emerge in the state’s political arena.