South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem (R) has sparked controversy and mockery after a story from her upcoming book revealed that she shot and killed her 14-month-old German wirehaired pointer, Cricket, roughly 20 years ago due to poor behavior.
Despite attempting to frame the story as a demonstration of her authenticity and willingness to make tough choices, many Republicans are scratching their heads, with some suggesting she has harmed her prospects of serving as former President Trump’s 2024 running mate.
Kristi Noem (Credits: Fox News)
Noem had been considered a top contender for the vice presidential spot, having been an early endorser of Trump and campaigning with him in Ohio in March. However, recent controversies, including the dog story, have led some to believe she has taken herself out of the running.
Republican strategists and Trump allies view the story as a self-inflicted mistake, with one strategist stating, “There’s so many things wrong with that story on so many levels.”
Noem has defended her actions and decision to publicize the story, stating that her book is filled with honest stories of her life, including challenges and painful decisions. However, the backlash has been bipartisan, with Democratic governors mocking her and former Trump spokesperson Alyssa Farah Griffin expressing horror at the anecdote.
This is not the first time Noem has found herself in the national spotlight this year, having previously been barred from Native American reservations in the state and scrutinized for posting a video promoting a Texas-based cosmetic dentist.
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem (Credits: PBS)
Her propensity for finding the spotlight may work against her with Trump, whose allies maintain he does not want to be overshadowed by his eventual running mate.
Noem’s vice presidential chances have taken a hit, with some suggesting she is no longer a viable option. However, she may still be positioned for an ambassadorship or another role in a potential second Trump administration or in GOP politics.
Despite this, her ability to garner votes was somewhat limited to begin with, and this controversy is unlikely to help.
