Following a lawsuit, newly released records reveal South Dakota spent over $150,000 on former Governor Kristi Noem’s travel, much of which was unrelated to state business and included trips for political events and personal activities. These expenses, totaling over $640,000 during her tenure, sparked outrage among state Republicans, who criticized the use of taxpayer funds for personal gain. While Noem’s office claims security costs were justified, critics argue that campaign funds should have covered expenses tied to her political ambitions. The lack of transparency surrounding these expenditures has raised concerns about South Dakota’s relatively lax disclosure requirements for gubernatorial travel.
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Secretary Kristi Noem’s X video, filmed at El Salvador’s CECOT prison, warned undocumented immigrants of potential imprisonment there for crimes against the U.S. This follows President Trump’s controversial deportation of Venezuelans to El Salvador, utilizing wartime legislation. Noem’s post generated intense online backlash, with critics citing human rights concerns and the lack of due process, while supporters praised her strong stance. The video also sparked controversy over Noem’s apparent display of a luxury watch during the filming.
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The Department of Homeland Security has launched a $200 million ad campaign, conceived by President Trump, to deter illegal immigration. Secretary Noem, featured in the ads, thanked Trump for his border security policies, fulfilling his request to run the ads domestically and internationally. The campaign uses strong language to warn undocumented immigrants of impending deportation, positioning itself as a counter-narrative to media coverage. These ads are running in multiple languages and countries.
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Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s Sunday appearance on CNN’s State of the Union sparked controversy. Noem defended Elon Musk’s access to sensitive government data, citing presidential authorization, despite prior Republican criticism of similar situations. Her assertion that the government is untrustworthy, while serving within it, highlighted the stark partisan divide over Musk’s sweeping, controversial restructuring efforts across numerous federal agencies. These actions, including agency closures and data access concerns, have triggered widespread anxiety among federal employees and legal challenges from Democrats.
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During a CNN interview, former DHS Secretary Kristi Noem asserted that Americans cannot trust the government, a statement she affirmed even as the current government official. This followed questioning regarding Elon Musk’s access to sensitive personal data, including social security numbers, through his role with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Noem defended Musk’s actions, citing his work identifying waste, fraud, and abuse, despite concerns raised by the Congressional Progressive Caucus about the legality and ethics of his access. Noem’s comments come amid widespread protests against DOGE’s recent actions, including budget cuts and a return to mandatory in-office work.
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Kristi Noem’s swearing-in ceremony as Homeland Security secretary was delayed due to the late arrival of her father’s Bible, causing Vice President Vance to leave before she arrived. This resulted in Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas administering the oath instead. Noem attributed the delay to the Bible’s tardiness, expressing gratitude to President Trump for her appointment. Her confirmation reinforces Trump’s strict immigration policies, which include initiating deportations.
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Kristi Noem’s Senate confirmation hearing highlighted the strained relationship between her administration and South Dakota’s tribal nations. While Noem cited a state-funded law enforcement training program as evidence of collaboration, she remains banned from eight of the state’s nine reservations due to accusations of enabling drug cartels, accusations tribal leaders vehemently deny. One tribe has since lifted the ban following an apology from Noem, but the remaining reservations maintain the prohibition. This situation underscores the deep divisions and lingering mistrust between the Governor and the state’s Indigenous communities.
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South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, known for her conservative stances and national prominence within the Republican Party, has been chosen by President Trump to lead the Department of Homeland Security. This appointment comes after Noem’s successful reelection campaign, which saw her leverage her handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and her outspoken opposition to government mandates. Trump’s choice of Noem, a strong supporter of his immigration policies, signals his intent to prioritize border security and crack down on illegal immigration. The agency, which has faced significant turmoil and leadership changes under Trump’s previous administration, oversees a massive budget and workforce.
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I cannot wrap my head around the logic behind Kristi Noem’s push to pardon the US Capitol attackers to prevent another January 6. It’s like saying, “Let’s release all bank robbers to prevent bank robberies.” The idea is absurd and nonsensical. Criminals need to face consequences for their actions, not be pardoned to potentially repeat their crimes.
Pardoning individuals who attacked the Capitol sends a dangerous message that such behavior is acceptable and will go unpunished. It undermines the rule of law and accountability, which are fundamental principles of justice in any society. How can we expect to deter future attacks if we excuse and pardon those responsible for the violence and chaos that occurred on January 6?… Continue reading
I am absolutely floored to hear that Governor Kristi Noem has been banished by two more South Dakota tribes, now accounting for nearly 20% of her state. This news is not surprising, considering the insensitive and harmful comments she made earlier this year about tribal leaders benefiting from drug cartels. It’s clear that her actions have consequences, and rightfully so.
The fact that she is not banned because of her unethical decision to kill a dog, but rather due to her derogatory remarks towards tribal leaders, speaks volumes about her character. It’s appalling to think that a political figure would stoop so low as to make such divisive and hurtful statements.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood