President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly poised to appoint South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem as the next Secretary of Homeland Security, according to various sources.
Noem, who has been leading South Dakota since 2019, was initially considered a potential running mate for Trump earlier this year. Her strong alignment with Trump’s policies, particularly on immigration and border security, makes her an appealing choice for this crucial position.
The Department of Homeland Security is responsible for various critical agencies, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the U.S. Secret Service, and FEMA.
If confirmed, Noem will collaborate with Trump’s recently announced “border czar,” Tom Homan, and Stephen Miller, the new deputy chief of staff for policy. All three are known for their firm stances on immigration issues.
As governor, Noem has demonstrated her commitment to border security by sending South Dakota National Guard troops to assist at the southern border multiple times. She has emphasized her proactive approach, stating, “I was the very first governor that when Texas and Arizona asked for help, I sent my National Guard troops down there to help.”
In addition to Noem, Trump is also expected to select Florida Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State. However, as of now, there has been no official announcement regarding either appointee.
Noem previously served as South Dakota’s at-large congresswoman and has established herself as a loyal Trump ally, frequently speaking with him and supporting his initiatives. In a recent interview, she noted that Trump is eager to move forward with significant plans and expects his team to share that ambitious vision.
Noem, re-elected in 2022, has two years remaining in her governorship and is term-limited after that. The potential appointment of Noem has garnered attention, underscoring her role in shaping the future of U.S. domestic security.
