Kristi Noem, the 33rd Governor of South Dakota, has become a central figure in the modern Republican Party. Known for her unwavering conservative stance and close ties to former President Donald Trump, Noem’s influence stretches far beyond her home state. Born on November 30, 1971, in Watertown, South Dakota, she was raised on a family farm and developed a strong connection to rural values early in life. Her upbringing has deeply influenced her political outlook and public image as a tough, no-nonsense leader who champions individual liberty, limited government, and traditional values.
Noem began her political career in the South Dakota House of Representatives in 2007. She later served as South Dakota’s sole member in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2011 to 2019, where she gained a reputation as a reliable conservative vote. In 2018, she was elected as South Dakota’s first female governor and took office in 2019. Her tenure as governor gained national attention during the COVID-19 pandemic when she chose not to implement statewide mask mandates or lockdowns, setting her apart from other state leaders. This approach made her a hero to many conservatives who opposed what they saw as government overreach, but also drew criticism from public health experts.
Her policies have consistently aligned with the Republican Party’s most conservative wing. On education, Kristi Noem has pushed for patriotic instruction in schools and has backed legislation to ban the teaching of what she describes as divisive concepts, such as Critical Race Theory. In regard to gun rights, she has been a vocal supporter of the Second Amendment, signing laws that expand the rights of gun owners in South Dakota. On abortion, Noem has taken some of the strongest stances in the country, supporting bans and restrictions, particularly after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.
Kristi Noem’s high profile within the Republican Party has led to speculation about her national ambitions. Her name has been floated as a potential vice-presidential pick, especially for Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign. She has maintained a strong alliance with Trump, often praising his policies and style of leadership. Noem has also become a frequent guest on conservative media outlets, using those platforms to promote her views and policies to a national audience.
Despite her rise, Noem has not been free of controversy. She faced criticism over her use of South Dakota’s state aircraft for travel to political events and personal engagements. Additionally, she came under fire for a situation involving her daughter’s application for a real estate appraiser license. Critics claimed she used her influence to benefit her daughter, though Noem has denied any wrongdoing. Another controversy erupted in 2024 when she published a memoir titled “No Going Back.” In the book, she described euthanizing a family dog, a story that attracted widespread backlash and generated intense media scrutiny.
Noem’s background continues to resonate with rural Americans. Although she did not complete college during her early years, she returned to school and finished her degree at South Dakota State University while serving in Congress. She often emphasizes her personal story as a rancher and mother to connect with everyday Americans. Her husband, Bryon Noem, and their three children are frequently mentioned in speeches and public appearances as part of her identity as a family-focused leader.
As governor, she has worked to position South Dakota as a business-friendly state with low taxes and minimal regulations. Her administration has also cooperated closely with federal agencies during emergencies, including during natural disasters and major rescue efforts. Her leadership style is marked by firm decision-making, high visibility, and a strong commitment to her conservative principles.
Kristi Noem remains a powerful voice in American politics, admired by many on the right for her stance on freedom, faith, and family. With speculation about her future role on the national stage continuing to grow, she is poised to play a major role in shaping the future direction of the Republican Party.