In a significant political development, South Dakota Republican Governor Kristi Noem has been confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the new Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. This pivotal appointment was made with a bipartisan vote of 59-34, marking a historic moment for Noem and the state of South Dakota.
Kristi Noem
Noem, who is 53 years old and a former congresswoman, is set to lead one of the largest federal departments, which boasts 260,000 employees and a budget exceeding $100 billion. Her journey from being South Dakota’s first female governor to a key player on the national stage underscores her political acumen and dedication to public service.
South Dakota, known for its rich agricultural heritage and picturesque landscapes, has been under the steady governance of Noem. Her leadership, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, drew national attention as she decided against imposing widespread shutdowns. This decision was praised by many in the state who valued economic stability and individual freedoms.
Noem’s confirmation was welcomed by her fellow South Dakotan Republicans, Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Senator Mike Rounds. Both Thune and Rounds cast their votes in favor of Noem’s nomination, underscoring their confidence in her ability to lead the Department of Homeland Security.
John Thune
“South Dakota is proud of Kristi Noem’s achievements,” Thune stated. “Her commitment to enforcing our immigration laws and securing our nation’s borders is exactly what we need.”
However, the nomination was not without its critics. Senator Dick Durbin from Illinois cautioned that Noem’s approach to immigration might harm key sectors of the U.S. economy, notably agriculture. The agricultural industry is a cornerstone of South Dakota’s economy, supporting thousands of jobs and contributing significantly to the state’s GDP.
“In many instances, they will be removing the very workers that pick the crop,” Durbin warned, highlighting concerns over potential deportations under Noem’s tenure.
Senator Chuck Grassley, a Republican from Iowa, voiced his support, emphasizing the importance of the rule of law in immigration policies. “The United States is a nation of immigrants, but we’re also a nation based on the rule of law,” Grassley argued.
Upon Noem’s confirmation, South Dakota Lieutenant Governor Larry Rhoden ascended to the position of governor, filling the remainder of Noem’s term through 2026. The state’s legislature is currently in session to confirm Rhoden’s choice for a new lieutenant governor.
Larry Rhoden
Noem’s relationship with former President Donald Trump has been notably strong, cemented through her involvement in significant national decisions and events. Her invitation to Trump for a 2020 Fourth of July fireworks display at the iconic Mount Rushmore was a testament to their collaborative spirit.
Noem’s legacy in South Dakota extends beyond politics and into her community, where she has consistently advocated for conservative policies and state pride. Her frequent deployment of the South Dakota National Guard to assist Texas in its border security challenges highlights her commitment to national security—a theme that will resonate in her new role.
As Kristi Noem steps into the national spotlight as Secretary of Homeland Security, South Dakota can take pride in its daughter of the plains, whose roots are deeply embedded in the values of hard work, resilience, and community spirit. The people of South Dakota watch with anticipation as Noem addresses pressing issues, balancing the demands of national security with the needs and values of a diverse nation.
For media inquiries, contact Editor Seth Tupper.