South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem is set to join Donald Trump’s cabinet as the new head of the Department of Homeland Security, according to CNN.
The announcement comes as Noem, once considered a rising Republican star, shifts into this pivotal role aimed at addressing issues at the southern border.
She’ll be tasked with fulfilling Trump’s promise to overhaul border security and oversee the deportation of millions of illegal migrants.
Noem’s appointment is part of a broader reshuffling that includes other Trump loyalists such as Stephen Miller, named deputy chief of staff, and Tom Homan, who will take on the role of “border czar.”
The Department of Homeland Security manages a substantial budget of $60 billion, indicating the scale of the responsibility Noem will soon face.
A Controversial Past Haunts Noem’s Career
Noem’s political trajectory has not been without its bumps.
Earlier this year, her personal life drew national attention when she revealed in her memoir a disturbing account involving her dog, Cricket.
In a hunting trip gone wrong, Noem admitted to shooting the 14-month-old puppy after it attacked a family’s chickens and bit her.
The incident sparked a backlash, especially on social media, where many criticized her actions and posted pictures of their own pets.
Despite the controversy, Noem stood by her decision, explaining that Cricket was untrainable and aggressive.
Her actions were seen as a desperate response to a difficult situation, but they’ve become a permanent stain on her public image.
The incident was widely discussed on platforms like The Guardian and became part of the political discourse around her, with even President Joe Biden’s re-election campaign referencing the story.
Personal Scandals and Rumors
In addition to the dog incident, rumors about Noem’s personal life have also surfaced.
Allegations of an affair with Trump advisor Corey Lewandowski made headlines, although both Noem and Lewandowski denied the claims when approached by DailyMail.com.
The gossip created a media storm, but Noem’s spokesman firmly denied the affair, defending the Governor’s integrity and dismissing the allegations as unfounded.
Despite these distractions, Noem’s political fortunes appear to have rebounded, thanks in part to her strong ties with Trump, who brought her back into his inner circle late in his campaign.
Her role as a moderator in a town hall event that unexpectedly turned into a dance party only helped to solidify her standing within Trump’s camp.
Trump’s Ongoing Cabinet Selections
Noem’s appointment is just one of several key cabinet picks made by Trump as he prepares for his January inauguration.
Along with Noem, Trump has offered the role of US ambassador to the United Nations to House Republican Elise Stefanik, who has already accepted the position.
Trump has also chosen former New York Rep. Lee Zeldin as the new head of the Environmental Protection Agency, a move he announced via social media.
Zeldin has promised to focus on restoring American energy dominance and cutting through bureaucratic red tape to boost economic growth.
Additionally, Congressman Mike Waltz of Florida has reportedly been asked to take on the role of National Security Advisor in the incoming administration, with sources confirming the offer.
As Trump finalizes his cabinet, these appointments signal the direction his presidency will take in its next chapter.
What’s next? It seems Noem’s new role in Trump’s administration will continue to spark debate, as her controversial past mingles with her powerful future in the DHS.
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