New Year’s means looking ahead. Growing up on my family ranch, we always looked forward to a long year of hard work. After all, calving season wasn’t too far in the future. We celebrated the holidays; we wished each other “Merry…

Every year, I am always blown away by the decorations at the South Dakota State Capitol. Volunteers decorate dozens of trees and decorate the whole Capitol in a theme. This year, the theme is “Through a Child’s Eyes,” and…

The noise of wingbeats flying above the cattails creates instant excitement for my two yellow labs. Ducks start landing in the decoys, and my two oldest sons (who are four and six) look up at me with huge smiles on their faces – duck calls in…

PIERRE, S.D. - On December 13 2024, Governor Kristi Noem announced the appointment of the Honorable Abigail (Abbey) Howard to the 3rd Judicial Circuit Court. “In addition to Abbey’s current experience on the bench, she was raised…

Our state motto is "Under God, the People Rule." During my time as Governor, I have always kept my budget proposals focused on our people, not government programs. Our state motto is “Under God, the People Rule.” During my time as…

Remarks as-prepared for delivery Intro Good afternoon, Lieutenant Governor Rhoden, Mr. Speaker, members of the House and Senate, and my fellow South Dakotans. I am once again blessed to be here to discuss South Dakota’s budget.…

December 3, 2024 at 1pm CT, Governor Kristi Noem will deliver the 2024 Budget Address, unveiling her budget proposal for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2025 and Fiscal Year 2026. PIERRE, S.D. – On December 3, 2024 at 1pm CT, Governor Kristi…

The holidays are a wonderful time to spend time together and celebrate traditions as a family. Every family celebrates in their own unique way and develops their own traditions. The holidays are a wonderful time to spend time together and celebrate…

PIERRE, S.D.?– On Nov 25th, Governor Kristi Noem announced four cornerstones to enhance government accountability in the State of South Dakota. As the first step, Governor Noem signed Executive Order 2024-07, which establishes required state…

This year, 2024, marks 10 years of raising awareness and celebrating “National Apprenticeship Week.” Apprenticeships are an effective approach for South Dakotans to gain on-the-job training plus classroom instruction to earn a nationally…

I love South Dakota. I love our natural beauty – from the rolling plains to the incredible Black Hills, from the Mighty Missouri to the peaceful prairie lakes. I love our people – they’re the hardest working around with common…

Just a few days ago, America went to the polls to vote. People in counties, towns & cities, and states across the nation made decisions about what they want their communities to look like moving forward. As a nation, we chose to send President…

For those of you who read my weekly columns, you know that they can take on many forms. They’re often focused on updating you on changing policies or issues that I am focused on. Sometimes they celebrate major events in our state, holidays, or…

PIERRE, S.D. – On Oct 25th, Governor Kristi Noem ordered that flags be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol from sunrise until sunset on Saturday, October 26, 2024, in honor of former state legislator Dennis (Denny) Ray Pierson. Denny…

Next year, we will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence – America’s 250th birthday! When our Founding Fathers wrote that incredible document, they were in a war for their Freedom against Great…

Over the past several years, South Dakota’s economy has consistently been the strongest of any state in the country. We recently received two updates that underscore just how strong our economy continues to be, even with the sluggish economy…

PIERRE, SD -- On Oct 17th, Governor Kristi Noem led four fellow Republican governors in urging President Joe Biden to immediately address the shortage of IV fluid as a result of Hurricane Helene damaging the Baxter International Plant in Marion, NC,…

PIERRE, SD -- On Oct 15th, Governor Kristi Noem and nine fellow governors submitted an amici curiae brief to the United States Supreme Court for the United States v. Skrmetti case. This case regards the constitutionality of a Tennessee law that,…

There’s a call that you’ll hear across much of South Dakota over the next several months. It doesn’t sound like a bird, though it’s all about one. The shout of “ROOSTER!” will ring out in fields and ditches, just…

PIERRE, S.D. – On Oct 10th, Governor Kristi Noem ordered that flags be flown at half-staff statewide effective immediately in honor of former U.S. Senator Tim Johnson, who passed away Tuesday evening. Flags will remain at half-staff until…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem and her office are now accepting applications for the Winter 2024/ Spring 2025 Internship Program. This internship provides students with first-hand experience within state government and the functions of…

PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota once again led the nation in income growth in 2023. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, South Dakota’s Real Median Household Income grew faster than any other state. Governor Kristi Noem…

South Dakota is a growing state, but we aren’t just growing in our more traditional industries like agriculture, tourism, and financial services. In recent years, South Dakota’s cybersecurity industry has taken off! Cybersecurity has…

PIERRE, S.D. – On Sep 30th, Governor Kristi Noem ordered that flags be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol from sunrise until sunset on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, in honor of former state legislator Dr. Donald Van Etten. He represented…

“There’s nothing better for the inside of a man than the outside of a horse.” That quote hung on a gate on our family farm and ranch growing up. It wasn’t until years later that I realized who said those words: the Gipper…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem and 25 fellow Republican governors demanded that U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) pass legislation to protect and show support for Jewish-American communities. You can read the letter here.…

Growing up on our family farm and ranch, there were two time periods that were busiest: calving season in the spring and harvest in the fall. The time has come for farmers to harvest most of their crops. It’s the fruit of their labor after a…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem is one of the founding members of the Governor’s Coalition for Energy Choice (Coalition). The Coalition will help state leaders formulate smart energy policies that will benefit working families,…

PIERRE, S.D. – On Sep 17th, Governor Kristi Noem and four of her fellow governors urged NCAA President Charlie Baker to restructure its settlement with student athletes on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) sponsorships to fix the undue burden on…

PIERRE, S.D. – On Sep 16th, Governor Kristi Noem wrote to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland urging him to take action to address public safety on Native American reservations in South Dakota. You can find the full letter here. “I…

As I watch my grandchildren grow and learn, I’m reminded of something that I learned as a young parent: our kids are capable of learning far more (and more quickly) than we realize before we see it for ourselves. They watch everything that we…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem has ordered that flags be flown at half-staff statewide from sunrise until sundown on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, in honor of Patriot Day. Patriot Day commemorates the people killed in the terrorist…

We recently celebrated the graduation of 20 new law enforcement officers in South Dakota. This graduation was unique because it included the first ever tribal-focused law enforcement training put on by a state, rather than by the federal government.…

PIERRE, S.D. – On Sep 4th, Governor Kristi Noem announced the appointment of Dr. Madhu Gottumukkala as Commissioner of the Bureau of Information and Telecommunications (BIT). His appointment will be effective on Monday, September 9, 2024.…

Each year, we celebrate the South Dakota State Fair in the days leading up to Labor Day. Things kick off Wednesday and wrap up Monday. I love the State Fair for so many reasons. I always head for the pork sandwiches and ice cream. The bull riding…

It’s back to school time! My kids are all grown up with their school days behind them, and though my grandkids are still young, Miss Addie is starting preschool! This time of year means so much to me. Everything that I do is about making our…

PIERRE, S.D. – On Aug 16th, Governor Kristi Noem ordered that flags be flown at half-staff statewide from sunrise until sunset on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, for National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day. “For too long, drug…

PIERRE, S.D. – On Aug 21st, Governor Kristi Noem appointed Joe Fiala as the Commissioner of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED). “Joe has been a great member of our economic development team for years. He has…

“We don’t complain about things – we fix them.” When my dad taught me that, he was talking about cows, horses, fences, and ranch chores, not the wide-open Southern Border. But the lesson holds true. The truth is, we could…

PIERRE, S.D. – On Aug 15th, Governor Kristi Noem announced that South Dakota has received a presidential disaster declaration due to the historic 1000-year flooding event that occurred between June 16 and July 8, 2024. 25 counties have…

Years ago, I lost a dear friend of mine to suicide, and it was fundamentally life changing for me. After that incident, I remember thinking, “I should have done something. I should have said something.” I replayed every interaction I had…

PIERRE, S.D. – On Aug 8th, Governor Kristi Noem ordered that flags be flown at half-staff statewide from sunrise until sunset on Saturday, August 10th, 2024, in honor of U.S. Army Corporal Robert A. Bartlett. Corporal Bartlett served during…

All across South Dakota, you’ve probably heard the roaring “wild hogs” across our highways and through our towns. Their roars and rumbles send a clear message: the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is back! In many ways, the rumble of the…

PIERRE, S.D. – On July 30th, Governor Kristi Noem announced the appointment of Mandi Mowery, Jeff Clapper, and the Honorable Eric Johnson to the 2nd Judicial Circuit Court. “The Judicial branch is fundamental in establishing law,…

PIERRE, S.D. – On July 26th, Governor Kristi Noem formally requested a major disaster declaration from the President for 25 counties due to the severe flooding that occurred in South Dakota between June 16 and July 8, 2024. Governor Noem…

When anti-American criminals tear down our statues, deface our monuments, or burn our flag, we must hold them to account for their vile actions. This past week, anti-American criminals defaced the Washington D.C. replica of the Liberty Bell in the…

PIERRE, S.D. – On July 26th, Governor Kristi Noem ordered that flags be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol from sunrise until sunset on Thursday, September 19th, 2024, in honor of former state legislator Dayle Hammock. He represented…

PIERRE, S.D. – On July 23rd, Governor Kristi Noem and 20 bipartisan governors joined in urging Congress to pass the Strengthening State and Tribal Child Support Act (HR 7906). The legislation would strengthen the ability of Tribes to collect…

Our history is filled with incredible stories of heroism - and I believe it is also full of times where God’s hand was at play shaping our future. One such time took place before America was even a country during the French and Indian War.…

PIERRE, SD - On July 18, 2024, Governor Kristi Noem ordered that flags be flown at half-staff statewide from sunrise until sunset on Thursday, July 18th, 2024, in honor of Corey Comperatore. Corey was a husband, father, and former Fire Chief of the…

PIERRE, SD - On July 15, 2024, Governor Kristi Noem announced that South Dakota closed the 2024 budget year with a surplus of $80.7 million. As she did last year, Governor Noem announced her intention to set aside the surplus to offset the cost of…

I love fishing. There’s almost no better way to relax, get away from the hubbub of daily life, and connect with the natural beauty all around us. And they taste pretty, good, too! South Dakota is home to some of the best fishing in the…

The Fourth of July has always been a special day to me. It’s our nation’s birthday, of course. But it’s also the day that my husband, Bryon, proposed. On July 4th, 1991, I told a group of kiddos that I would haul them and their…

PIERRE, S.D., On July 1, 2024 – The bill to enhance teacher compensation, SB 127, became law today. The bill establishes a minimum teacher salary and revises the requirements pertaining to average teacher compensation. “We’ve…

PIERRE, S.D., On July 1, 2024 – The Department of Agriculture & Natural Resource’s (DANR) foreign-owned ag land bill, HB 1231, became law today. The bill places restrictions on the ownership of U.S. agricultural land, stopping six…

PIERRE, S.D. On July 1, 2024 – The historic bill to combat antisemitism, HB 1076, became law today. The bill requires the consideration of the definition of antisemitism when investigating unfair or discriminatory practices. It defines…

PIERRE, S.D. On July 1, 2024 – The South Dakota Department of Labor & Regulation’s second-chance licensing bill, SB 57, became law today. The bill creates uniform procedures for consideration of criminal histories and conviction in…

On June 28, 2024 - Nothing gives life quite like water. We rely on it every single day for nourishment, for cleanliness, and so much more. But that same simple liquid can also cause devastation in a very short period of time. Unfortunately, South…

PIERRE, S.D. – On June 24th, Governor Kristi Noem signed Executive Order 2024-05 granting an hours-of-service waiver for certain products being transported through South Dakota. The 14-day order declares a state of emergency and exempts…

PIERRE, S.D. – On June 24th, Governor Kristi Noem hosted the first-ever Tribal Public Safety Crisis Summit at the Governor’s Residence in Pierre. She was joined by Congressman Dusty Johnson, Attorney General Marty Jackley, and leaders…

PIERRE, S.D. – On June 22nd, Governor Kristi Noem signed Executive Order 2024-04 declaring an emergency for the recent storms and associated flooding. State agencies have already been responding and will continue assisting local governments…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem and her office are now accepting applications for the 2024 Fall Internship Program. This internship program provides students with first-hand experience within state government and the functions of the…

Farmers are some of the biggest gamblers I know. They go to a bank, borrow money to buy land – borrow more money to buy equipment. Then they go back and get an operating note so they can buy seed, fertilizer, and chemical. And then they bury…

This week I had the opportunity to spend time with a group of people who are involved with our Foster Care system and some of the young people who participate in it. Our Secretary of Social Services invited me to attend, as the day was facilitated…

The COVID-19 pandemic was a stark reminder about just how much it matters who our leaders are. Governors across the nation shut their states down. Without batting an eye, they took away their people’s Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Religion,…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem’s Freedom Works Here Ad, “Kiss My Abacus,” won a national award for Art Direction at this year’s Telly Awards. Previously, the “Bright Side” ad also won a national award…

PIERRE, S.D. – The Bureau of Finance and Management (BFM) has taken a crucial step toward modernizing the State of South Dakota’s financial processes through Project BISON. Last week, BFM secured Oracle Fusion Cloud as its new Enterprise…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem and 19 of her fellow Republican governors sent a letter to President Biden pushing for more innovation in American energy. The full letter can be found here. “As governors, we are extremely concerned…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem and 23 of her fellow Republican governors sent a letter to President Biden opposing proposed amendments to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Internal Health Regulations (IHR) and a new pandemic…

PIERRE, S.D. – On May 31st, Governor Kristi Noem celebrates the 100th anniversary of Native American citizenship, which will take place on June 2nd. “I have a deep sense of compassion and respect for our Native American population in…

I have a deep sense of compassion and respect for our Native American population here in South Dakota. And I firmly believe that we solve problems best when we work together and communicate. This is why I have made it a priority to call attention…

PIERRE, S.D. – On May 31st, Governor Kristi Noem announced that Schwan’s Company, a subsidiary of CJ Foods, is making a further investment in South Dakota. “South Dakota just keeps growing. Our ‘Open for Business’…

PIERRE, S.D. – On May 28th, Governor Kristi Noem announced that she will be hosting a Tribal Public Safety Crisis Summit in Pierre on Monday, June 24. Governor Noem is inviting both elected leaders and law enforcement officials at the federal,…

As the beautiful vibrant colors of spring paint our landscapes and the sweet scent of renewal fills the air, it’s time to celebrate one of the most thrilling aspects of South Dakota: travel and tourism. We are just wrapping up National Travel…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem and 23 of her fellow Republican governors sent a letter to President Biden opposing proposed amendments to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Internal Health Regulations (IHR) and a new pandemic…

PIERRE, S.D. – On May 23rd, Governor Kristi Noem ordered that flags be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol from sunrise until sunset on Thursday, May 23rd, 2024, in honor of former state legislator Janice Nicolay. She represented…

PIERRE, S.D. – On May 21st, Governor Kristi Noem announced that she will appoint Rick Vallery to serve on the Transportation Commission. “South Dakota’s Transportation Commission is dedicated to keeping our citizens safe as they…

PIERRE, S.D. – On May 16th, Governor Kristi Noem went to the warzone at our Southern Border with Department of Tribal Relations Secretary David Flute, Tribal Law Enforcement Liaison Algin Young, Senator Erin Tobin, Senator Mike Walsh, and…

“The State of South Dakota lacks criminal jurisdiction over Indian Country crimes; thus, in reality, the sole provider of law enforcement services to the Oglala Sioux Tribe is the federal government. We believe this federal neglect has…

PIERRE, S.D. – On May 17th, Governor Kristi Noem held a press conference on border security and cartel presence on tribal reservation. “The drug cartels and their criminal activity have made all of our communities unsafe. But…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Noem will be going to the warzone at our Southern Border, on Thursday May 16, to meet with South Dakota National Guard soldiers who are helping to build the border wall. The next morning, Governor Noem will hold a press…

PIERRE, S.D. – On May 14th, Governor Kristi Noem announced that Algin Young will serve as the new Tribal Law Enforcement Liaison for the Noem Administration. “The federal government is turning their backs on our tribal reservations.…

PIERRE, S.D. – On May 14th, Governor Kristi Noem and Attorney General Marty Jackley announced that South Dakota has joined 17 other states in challenging yet another example of overreach by the Biden Administration to advance radical gender…

PIERRE, S.D. – On May 13th, Governor Kristi Noem ordered that flags be flown at half-staff statewide from sunrise until sunset on Wednesday, May 15th, 2024, in honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day. Peace Officers Memorial Day honors…

Being a mom and a grandma has been the biggest blessing of my life. My kids and my grandkids are motivation to get up every single day and fight for a better future for all South Dakotans. My number one goal as Governor has always been to be able…

PIERRE, S.D. – On May 8th, Governor Kristi Noem and Attorney General Marty Jackley announced that South Dakota has joined five other states in challenging President Biden’s attempt to dismantle Title IX, which would deny opportunities…

May 6th – 10th is Teacher Appreciation Week, a time to celebrate our educators and thank them for everything they do for our students. But there’s an ongoing problem in South Dakota – teacher salaries have not kept up with…

PIERRE, S.D. – On May 3rd, Governor Noem recognizes May 5th as Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Day in South Dakota. This is a day to remember those who have lost their lives and strive for more awareness of this issue. “My…

PIERRE, S.D. – On May 2nd, Governor Kristi Noem signed Executive Order 2024-03, which updates agency names for the South Dakota Hazard Mitigation Team.

PIERRE, S.D. – On May 1st, Governor Kristi Noem and 26 of her Republican colleagues issued a joint statement celebrating Jewish American Heritage Month. “As governors and community leaders, we are honored to recognize May as…

PIERRE, S.D. – On April 30th, Governor Kristi Noem celebrated S&P’s reaffirmation of South Dakota’s AAA credit rating. “The experts recognize South Dakota’s economic strength and success,” said…

PIERRE, S.D. – On April 30th, Governor Kristi Noem and 52 of her fellow governors oppose legislation that disregards gubernatorial authority over the National Guard, Legislative Proposal 480. The bipartisan group of governors sent a letter to…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem and Attorney General Marty Jackley announced that South Dakota will not stand for President Joe Biden’s dangerous dismantling of Title IX, the over 50-year-old civil rights law that prohibits sex-based…

With the stroke of a single pen, President Joe Biden has given mediocre men the right to steal opportunities from exceptional women. The landmark federal civil rights law known as Title IX is an over 50-year-old law that prohibits sex-based…

PIERRE, S.D. – On April 23rd, Governor Kristi Noem issued the following statement in response to Attorney General Jackley’s investigation: “I appreciate the investigation conducted by DCI and the Attorney General into the recent…

PIERRE, S.D. – On April 23rd, Governor Kristi Noem and 24 of her Republican colleagues issued a joint statement opposing the Biden Administration’s ban on approving applications to export liquified natural gas: “As governors,…

From a young age, my mom and dad taught me that the Bible teaches us to pray for the Holy Land of Israel. In the face of brazen and callous attacks from those hell bent on the inhalation of the Jews, I pray for God’s chosen people even more…

PIERRE, S.D. – On April 19th, Governor Kristi Noem ordered that flags be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol from sunrise until sunset on Monday, April 22nd, 2024, in honor of former state legislator and Public Utilities Commissioner…

Pierre, S.D. – On April 17th, Governor Kristi Noem announced the appointment of Scott Roetzel and Eric Kelderman to the 7th Circuit court. “Law and order is an integral part of the American justice system,” said Governor Noem.…

PIERRE, S.D. – On April 13th, Governor Kristi Noem voiced her support for the nation of Israel and the Jewish people in the wake of Iran launching an attack towards Israeli soil. “We stand with the people of Israel against this brazen…

We recently launched round three of the most successful workforce recruitment campaign in South Dakota history – Freedom Works Here. We kicked it off with a brand-new ad. In this ad, which we’re calling “Building in America,”…

PIERRE, S.D. – On April 11, Governor Kristi Noem and Attorney General Marty Jackley offered South Dakota’s nine Native American tribes a historic opportunity to train tribal law enforcement officers. “People in tribal communities…

PIERRE, S.D. – On April 11, Governor Kristi Noem and 21 of her fellow Republican governors urged the Environmental Protection Agency under the Biden Administration to pause implementation of the PM2.5 rule under the National Ambient Air…

Pierre, SD - Today, Governor Kristi Noem celebrated Fitch Ratings’ affirmation of South Dakota’s AAA credit rating. “South Dakota’s conservative fiscal policies work. They make our people more prosperous and our government…

“Building in America” Ad Invites Homebuilders to Move to South Dakota Pierre, SD - Today, Governor Kristi Noem and the Governor’s Office of Economic Development launched round three of Freedom Works Here, the most successful…

There is an invasion happening at our Southern Border. It is a warzone. People are dying every day because of the crime, drugs, and human trafficking flowing into our country. President Trump is right – we need to secure our borders and keep…

Pierre, SD - Governor Kristi Noem’s Freedom Works Here Ad, “Bright Side,” won a national award for Best TV Ad at this year’s Reed Awards. “When I kicked off Freedom Works Here, my goal was to tell South Dakota’s…

RAPID CITY, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem will hold a press conference in honor of National Travel and Tourism Week. The press conference will take place at 10:00 am MT on Wednesday, May 10 at Reptile Gardens in the upper level of the Sky Dome.…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem ordered that flags be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol from sunrise until sunset on Sunday, May 7th, 2023, in honor of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Noem recognizes today as Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Day. It is a day to remember all indigenous people who have lost their lives and are missing in South Dakota. “I can only imagine the sorrow and…

“Everyone must visit beautiful South Dakota. Pack your bags and rush to the car and start driving. With so many fun and exciting things to see and do, what will you do first?” Those are the words of an elementary school student who…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Noem signed Executive Order 2023-06 banning Tencent Holding, Ltd. (“Tencent”) for state government agencies, employees, and contractors using state devices. Tencent is a China-based technology and…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem and the Governor’s Office of Economic Development announced the latest ConnectSD broadband grants. These awards will make quality, high-speed internet available to underserved households in South…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem ordered that flags be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol from sunrise until sunset on Sunday, May 7th, 2023, in honor of former State Representative Marie C. Ingalls. She served in the South…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Krisi Noem announced that she will appoint James (Jim) V. Lochner and Doug Morrison to serve on the South Dakota Board of Regents. “For South Dakota students attending our state universities, we have a…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem and the Bureau of Human Resources expanded Paid Family Leave benefits for state employees to 100% for up to 12 weeks. This benefit covers birth and adoptions. The rules package was passed by the South…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Krisi Noem announced that she will appoint Bruce Cull to serve on the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission. She also reappointed Travis Bies to serve another term on the GFP Commission.…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that she will appoint Denny Law to the South Dakota Board of Technical Education (BOTE). She also reappointed Brian Sandvig to serve another term on the BOTE. “South Dakota has some…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that Brigadier General Mark Morrell will serve as the next Adjutant General of the South Dakota National Guard (SDNG). Major General Jeff Marlette is retiring. The change of command will…

My first job consisted of a list of farm chores – feed the horses, check the cows, clean the barns. But it was never my intention to keep that job forever. It wasn’t my dad’s wish for me either. At one time, my dad suggested that…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem and 25 of her fellow Republican governors released a statement recognizing May as Jewish American Heritage Month. You can read the statement here. “As public servants and governors, we support…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that Steve Westra, Commissioner of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED), will be stepping down from that position, effective May 22. “South Dakotans are…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem recognized the 75th anniversary of the state of Israel. The proclamation can be found here. Genesis 12: 1-3 tells us that Israel has been granted her lands by a promise made by God to Abraham.…

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem and the Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) announced additional financial assistance for businesses and apprentices to develop new and expand existing Registered Apprenticeship Programs.…

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem will announce additional funding for workforce development to grow the number of apprentices with grants directly to employers for new and existing Registered Apprenticeship Programs. This funding will…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Noem signed Executive Order 2023-05 expanding job opportunities to South Dakotans without a postsecondary degree. The order requires executive branch agencies to consider work and life experiences during the…

Our kids and our grandkids will be the next generation of leaders, business owners, and entrepreneurs. They will also be the leaders of the future of our great American republic. They deserve an honest and factual classroom teaching that will…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem applauded the passage of the social studies standards revisions by the Board of Education Standards: “Today is a wonderful day for the students in South Dakota. They are our future,”…

President Reagan famously said, “the nine most terrifying words in the English language are: I’m from the government, and I’m here to help.” Yet today, too many Americans are still relying on the government for their…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Noem signed Executive Order 2023-04 to protect South Dakotan’s Second Amendment rights from being infringed upon by financial institutions. “This Executive Order will protect the God-given right to…

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem will deliver the keynote address at Lake Area Technical College’s Governor’s Luncheon on Monday in Watertown. The event raises funds for scholarship for students at Lake Area Technical…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Scott Bollinger, Commissioner of the Bureau of Administration (BOA), announced that he will be retiring in June of 2023. Governor Noem thanked Commissioner Bollinger for his years of service to the state and announced…

During the Easter season, we spend time with our families, we celebrate with our friends and neighbors, and we are thankful for our many blessings. It’s a time when people come together to help one another; to love one another. South…

PIERRE, S.D. – The 70th annual Pierre Elks Lodge Easter Egg Hunt will be on Easter Sunday, April 9, 2023. The Easter Egg Hunt will take place from 1:00PM (CT) – 2:00PM (CT) at the South Dakota State Capitol. Though the event has…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that South Dakota will “see [President Biden] in court” over the Biden Administration’s proposed reimagination of Title IX, which exists to protect equal opportunities for…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem ordered state government executive branch offices in certain counties remain closed on Wednesday, April 5, because of the winter storm with blizzard conditions in South Dakota. State offices will…

PIERRE, S.D. – On July 1, 2023, South Dakota’s tax rate will decrease from 4.5 percent to 4.2 percent. Governor Kristi Noem and the Department of Revenue are working diligently to account for the three-tenth percent sales tax decrease…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem ordered state government executive branch offices in certain counties be closed Tuesday, April 4, because of the winter storms in South Dakota. Heavy snow and high winds will take place across much of…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem and 22 of her fellow Republican governors issued a statement of support for the U.S. House of Representatives’ Energy Bill as introduced. “Americans continue to face record high energy…

As the 2023 legislative session comes to a close, I want to take a moment to look back at what the legislature and I were able to accomplish working together for the people of South Dakota. We advanced the American Dream. We provided opportunities…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, all of Governor Noem’s remaining VETOES were sustained by the legislature. Governor Noem VETOED five bills this legislative session that would have been harmful to South Dakota. The bills VETOED were SB 108, SB 129,…

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Today, Governor Noem signed SB 189 into law. The bill restricts state and local governments from contracting with six “Evil Foreign Governments.” Governor Noem signed the bill at the 114th Fighter Wing at Joe…

PIERRE, S.D. – Yesterday, Governor Noem signed 12 election bills into law. Governor Noem signed some of the election bills alongside Secretary of State Monae Johnson. You can find photos of that signing here. “South Dakota’s…

MADISON, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem will attend a Special Competitive Studies Project seminar hosted by Dakota State University in Madison on Friday March 24 at 8:00 am CT. She will deliver opening remarks for the event. Media is invited to…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem and three of her fellow governors sent a letter to EPA Administrator Regan requesting an emergency waiver to allow for E15 this summer during driving season. You can read the full statement here.…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem signed HB 1137 to give South Dakotans a tax holiday. She wrote a signing letter to the legislature, which can be found here. “The people of South Dakota deserve relief from burdensome…

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem will sign Senate Bill 189 on Wednesday in Sioux Falls. This legislation codifies Governor Noem’s Executive Order 2023-02 by restricting state and local governments from contracting with six…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Noem signed SB 210 into law. She sent a signing letter to legislators. That letter can be found here. “I appreciate the work of my BFM Commissioner Jim Terwilliger and the BFM team on this budget,”…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Noem signed HB 1016, which funds $60 million for construction of a new women’s prison in Rapid City. She also signed HB 1017, which funds $52 million for the purchase of land and design costs for a new…

RAPID CITY, S.D. – Yesterday, Governor Noem attended the National Guard 216 Fire Fighting Detachment Deployment Ceremony at the Range Road Armory in Rapid City. The unit is deploying to Romania. You can find photos from the event here.…

I talk a lot about the American Dream. Unfortunately, that’s unusual these days. To me, the American Dream was an ideal that was embedded in my heart since I was a child. I think that had a lot to do with growing up on the farm. It was tough…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Noem signed six bills to enhance South Dakota’s workforce. Earlier this legislative session, Governor Kristi Noem signed SB 76 into law, which enhanced workforce freedom by recognizing out-of-state licenses…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem and 18 of her fellow Republican governors released a joint policy statement opposing President Biden’s potential veto of a matter against the radical environmental, social, and corporate…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Noem signed HB 1039, which provides 100% tuition reimbursement for members of the South Dakota National Guard attending college in-state. You can find photos from the bill signing event here. “The members…

PIERRE, S.D. – On Thursday afternoon in Rapid City, Governor Kristi Noem will sign HB 1039, which provides 100% tuition reimbursement for members of the South Dakota National Guard at Board of Regents institutions and state tech colleges.…

MITCHELL, S.D. – Today, Governor Noem signed HB 1090 to protect South Dakota agriculture operations from frivolous lawsuits that can delay development and increase costs for producers. “I’ve always thought that there is something…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Noem has signed HB 1175, which reflects the fact that South Dakota has its first woman Governor and changes references to the Governor and other officials in state statute. “Every little girl in South Dakota…

PIERRE, S.D. – On Wednesday morning, Governor Kristi Noem will sign HB 1090, which will protect South Dakota agriculture operations from frivolous claims that can delay development and increase costs for producers. The bill signing will take…

There’s a perception that South Dakota’s future is charted in Pierre. That’s where big decisions get made; where Governors have taken historic actions; where legislators go every winter to represent the people and vote. But that…

PIERRE, S.D. – Yesterday, Governor Kristi Noem VETOED House Bill 1193, which would infringe upon Freedom in digital currency. You can find Governor Noem’s VETO letter here. “HB 1193 adopts a definition of ‘money’ to…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Noem signed the following 8 bills into law: SB 8 revises provisions relating to addiction and prevention services professionals; SB 18 revises the appropriation for the Dakota Events CompleX (DEX) at the…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem VETOED Senate Bill 129, which would treat teachers and school employees the same as law enforcement officers in instances of assault in their official duties. You can find Governor Noem’s VETO…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem VETOED Senate Bill 108, which would enable underage South Dakotans to consume alcohol as part of college courses. SB 108 does nothing to limit the sale, service, or consumption of alcohol to specific…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Noem signed the following 21 bills into law: SB 5 extends the termination date of the Juvenile Justice Oversight Council and modifies its membership requirements; SB 6 authorizes community response teams to…

PIERRE, S.D. – Yesterday, Governor Noem signed the following 19 bills into law: SB 20 authorizes the awarding of deobligated grants in accordance with policies of the Board of Water and Natural Resources; SB 46 enhances the penalty for…

“I’m hoping everyone in the nation gets on the bandwagon and follows us.” Those were the words of Ken Amundson, the president of Midwestern Mechanical in Sioux Falls. Ken’s company has had to cut through a lot of red tape…

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem VETOED House Bill 1109, which would raise occupation taxes on both South Dakotans and visitors to our state. You can find Governor Noem’s VETO letter here. “The occupation tax is…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Noem signed the following 5 bills into law: SB 44 repeals provisions regarding the creation of river basin natural resource districts; SB 56 revises requirements to relocate a county seat; SB 98…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem asked legislators to support a permanent tax cut. Governor Noem thanked the people of South Dakota for turning challenges into opportunities – and she advocated for the tax cut that the people…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem announced today that South Dakota has received a Presidential Disaster Declaration that allows the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help South Dakota local governments in 16 counties statewide…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Noem signed the following 12 bills into law: SB 31 creates an off-road vehicle decal for non-residents visiting the state; SB 34 authorizes the sale of real property in Lake County by the Board of…

PIERRE, S.D. – On Wednesday morning, Governor Kristi Noem will sign SB 76, which will recognize out-of-state licenses for nearly every profession in South Dakota. This legislation will help tackle South Dakota’s workforce challenges by…

The celebration of Presidents’ Day always brings attention to South Dakota. When people think of our state, they think of Mount Rushmore – and rightly so. In a lot of ways, that mountain is a symbol of American Freedom. It presents the…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem is now accepting applications for the Governor’s Office Summer 2023 Internship Program. Student interns will work with staff on various projects based on interests and strengths. Additional duties…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Noem signed the following 21 bills into law: SB 9 modifies discharge notice procedures applicable to developmentally disabled persons; SB 10 expands certification options for interpreters for The Committee on…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Gov. Kristi Noem ordered state government executive branch offices in certain counties to remain closed until noon on Thursday, Feb. 23, because of the winter storms in South Dakota. State offices will remain closed…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Gov. Kristi Noem ordered all state government executive branch offices in certain counties to be closed Wednesday, Feb. 22, because of the winter storms in South Dakota. State offices are closed in the following…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that she will appoint James (Jim) White to serve on the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission. “I love South Dakota’s outdoors. We need to preserve our natural…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem and 16 of her fellow Republican governors released a joint statement on the multiple foreign objects that have violated American airspace over the last few weeks. You can read the statement here.…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem celebrated new record low unemployment data from the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR). This data shows that fewer South Dakotans needed unemployment benefits in 2022 than in any year…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem will highlight South Dakota’s freedom-focused approach to health policy, especially throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, at an event hosted by the Cato Institute on Thursday. The event is titled…

PIERRE, S.D. – Tonight, Gov. Kristi Noem ordered all state government executive branch offices in eight northeast South Dakota counties to be closed until noon Wednesday, Feb.15, due to blizzard conditions. The order impacts Clark,…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem will outline the blueprint for a state response to the threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party in a speech to the America First Policy Institute on Wednesday. The speech will take place at 12:30 pm ET…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem signed HB 1080, the “Help Not Harm” bill, into law. This bill prohibits certain medical and surgical interventions for minors. “South Dakota’s kids are our future. With this…

PIERRE, S.D. – Yesterday, Governor Kristi Noem signed Executive Order 2023-03, which declares a disaster in counties impacted by the severe winter storms this past December. The order declares a disaster to exist in the counties of Bennett,…

You’ve heard me talk a lot over the years about helping foster families so that we can build stronger families across our state. In situations where parents aren’t able to take care of their kids, foster families step up to fill the…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem has signed several bills into law. Today, Governor Noem signed the following 26 bills into law: SB 7, clarifies emergency commitments of severely mentally ill persons by appropriate regional facilities;…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced that she will appoint Steven (Steve) Perkins to the South Dakota Board of Education Standards, effective immediately. He will take the seat previously occupied by Becky Guffin.…

Agriculture is the bedrock of South Dakota. The ag industry is tough, and it’s often thankless, but it truly is how we feed the world. As a lifelong farmer and rancher myself, I take great pride in my rural upbringing. Not a day goes by where…

PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem has signed several bills into law. On Wednesday, Governor Noem signed SB 2, which revises Department of Corrections reporting requirements concerning abuse and neglect of individuals in private contracted…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, pursuant to her constitutional authority under Article XII § 7 of the South Dakota Constitution, Governor Kristi Noem transmitted the Governor’s Recommended Budget to the Senate Committee on Appropriations for…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Gov. Kristi Noem signed SB 41, which frees up $200 million in housing infrastructure investment, into law. “We are thankful that this bill has been revised so that these dollars can now be deployed. As South…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem signed HB 1011, which cuts unemployment insurance employer contributions by 0.5%, delivering an $18 million tax cut for South Dakota businesses. “South Dakota’s economy is booming, our…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem and 24 of her fellow Republican governors sent a letter to President Biden saying they oppose his rule regarding the Clean Water Act and the revised definition of “Waters of the United…

Gov. Noem Announces Paid Family Leave Proposal PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem and legislators announced a two-part paid family leave initiative. HB 1151 enhances paid family leave benefits for state employees and provides an…

Strengthening South Dakota Families Family is everything. I grew up working our family farm and ranch with my parents and siblings. When my dad passed away, my siblings worked together to keep our family’s dreams alive. My greatest joy in…

Legislators Announce "First Woman Governor" Bill and Constitutional Amendment PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Rep. Jess Olson (R-34) and Sen. Erin Tobin (R-21) announced both HB 1175 and SJR 505 to reflect the fact that South Dakota has its first…

Gov. Noem and AG Jackley Remind Pharmacists of Illegality of Chemical Abortions PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Gov. Kristi Noem and Attorney General Marty Jackley wrote to South Dakota pharmacists to remind them of state law regarding the…

Gov. Noem Announces Stronger Families Scholarship Program PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Gov. Kristi Noem and legislators announced SB 100 to establish the Stronger Families Scholarship. This bill appropriates $15 million to improve educational…

Gov. Kristi Noem's Personal Cell Phone Hacked PIERRE, S.D. – Following the leak of Governor Kristi Noem and her family’s personal Social Security numbers and other private information by the January 6th Committee, Governor…

Gov. Noem Funds Equipment at South Dakota Tech Colleges PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem announced $10 million in funding for modern equipment at South Dakota’s four technical colleges. The funding will come from Future…

Gov. Noem Signs Executive Order Blocking State Business with "Evil Foreign Governments" PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem signed Executive Order 2023-02, which blocks the State of South Dakota from doing business with certain…

Gov. Noem Urges Investigations into Leak of Social Security Numbers PIERRE, S.D. – Yesterday, Governor Kristi Noem urged investigations into the leaking of nearly 2,000 Social Security numbers by the January 6th Committee. She pushed…

Champions at the Capitol This week, we welcomed the South Dakota State University football team to the South Dakota State Capitol in Pierre. On January 8th, the Jackrabbits brought home a Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) national…

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem and legislators announced SB 75, which provides for all pregnancy expenses to be covered by both parents. “Life begins at conception. Science proves this, and it’s why South Dakota is a…

Gov. Noem Announces Bill to Eliminate Sales Tax on Groceries PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem, Representative Mary Fitzgerald, and Senator John Wiik announced HB 1075, which will deliver the largest tax cut in South Dakota…

Building the American Dream South Dakota’s economy has been thriving over the past few years, but even though our unemployment rate in 2022 was the lowest it’s been in our state’s history, we still have 23,000 open jobs in our…

Gov. Noem Announces Bill to Preserve Agriculture PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem and legislators announced legislation to preserve agriculture. “Agriculture is by far our state’s largest industry, accounting for 1…

Gov. Noem Announces Bill to Recognize Out-of-State Licenses PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem and Sen. Jim Stalzer announced legislation to recognize out-of-state licenses for nearly every profession. “South Dakota’s…

Gov. Noem to Deliver 2023 State of the State Address Tomorrow PIERRE, S.D. – Tomorrow, Governor Kristi Noem will deliver the 2023 State of the State Address, discussing South Dakota’s continued strong growth and sharing the…

Governor Kristi Noem's 2nd Inaugural Address Four years ago, I stood in front of you with my left hand on my dad’s Bible and my right hand raised, swearing an oath to uphold the Constitution of both the state of South Dakota and the United…

Gov. Noem Thanks Attorney General Vargo for His Service PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem thanked Attorney General Mark Vargo for his work on behalf of the people of South Dakota. “Although Mark he knew the job was…

New Year,New Growth In a radio address to the nation on January 1st, 1983, President Reagan said that “New Year’s Day was an especially American tradition, full of the optimism and hope we’re famous for in our daily lives-an…

Gov. Noem Appoints Joe Graves as Secretary of Education PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Gov. Kristi Noem appointed Joe Graves as Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Education. Joe’s appointment will be effective January 10th. Joe is…

Gov. Noem Appoints Matt Althoff as Secretary of Social Services PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Gov. Kristi Noem appointed Matt Althoff as Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Social Services. Matt’s appointment will be effective…