Kristi Noem

Kristi Noem is an American politician serving as the 33rd Governor of South Dakota since 2019. A member of the Republican Party, she previously served as the U.S. Representative for South Dakota's at-large congressional district from 2011 to 2019. Noem is a prominent figure in conservative politics, known for her staunch support of Second Amendment rights, anti-abortion policies, and a hands-off approach to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.

Early life and education

Kristi Noem was born in Watertown, South Dakota, and grew up on her family's farm near Hamlin County. Her early life was shaped by agricultural work, and she attended Northern State University before graduating from South Dakota State University with a degree in political science. Following the death of her father in a farming accident, she returned to help manage the family's ranching and agricultural operations.

Political career

Noem began her political career in the South Dakota House of Representatives, where she served from 2007 to 2011. In 2010, she successfully challenged incumbent Democratic Congresswoman Stephanie Herseth Sandlin to win South Dakota's sole House seat. During her tenure in the United States Congress, she served on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Natural Resources, advocating for policies supporting energy development and agricultural interests. She was also a member of the Republican Study Committee and the House Freedom Caucus.

Governor of South Dakota

Elected governor in 2018, Noem succeeded fellow Republican Dennis Daugaard. Her tenure has been marked by a strong emphasis on economic liberty and state sovereignty. She gained national attention for rejecting widespread lockdowns and mask mandates during the COVID-19 pandemic, positioning South Dakota as a state with minimal restrictions. Her administration has focused on tax reduction, regulatory reform, and attracting business investment, notably through projects like the carbon capture initiative at the Dakota Gasification Plant in Beulah. She signed legislation banning transgender women and girls from participating in school sports consistent with their gender identity and enacted one of the nation's strongest abortion trigger laws following the *Dobbs* decision.

Political positions and public image

Noem is a staunch conservative aligned with the MAGA wing of the Republican Party. She is a vocal supporter of NRA policies and gun rights, and a firm opponent of abortion rights. Her handling of the COVID-19 pandemic drew praise from figures like Donald Trump and criticism from public health officials such as Anthony Fauci. She is often mentioned as a potential future vice presidential or presidential candidate and is a frequent speaker at events like the CPAC. Her public image is that of a right-wing culture warrior, though she has faced scrutiny over ethical questions involving state government use of aircraft and her family's business dealings.

Personal life

Noem is married to Bryon Noem, and they have three children. The family resides on their ranch in Castlewood and remains actively involved in farming and rodeo activities. She is an avid hunter and outdoorswoman, interests often highlighted in her political persona. Her autobiography, *Not My First Rodeo: Lessons from the Heartland*, was published in 2022.

Category:Governors of South Dakota Category:Members of the United States House of Representatives from South Dakota Category:South Dakota Republicans