Fri Jan 17 14:20:00 UTC 2025: **South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem Receives Tribal Endorsement Ahead of DHS Confirmation Hearing**
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe has lifted its banishment of South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, endorsing her nomination to serve as Secretary of Homeland Security. The reversal comes just days before Noem’s Senate confirmation hearing, scheduled for January 17th.
Tribal President Tony Reider stated in a letter that the executive committee voted to remove the ban, citing Noem’s apology for previous comments deemed offensive to tribal members regarding their children’s futures and the alleged benefit tribal leaders receive from the immigration crisis and drug cartels. Reider noted Noem’s efforts to explain her position and seek advice on future communication.
Noem’s nomination by President-elect Trump followed his election victory. She has garnered significant support, including endorsements from numerous police groups and unions, notably the International Association of Fire Fighters, a historically Democratic organization. This endorsement, in light of recent California wildfires, highlights her experience in emergency management.
Republican Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has urged swift Senate confirmation, particularly emphasizing the need for a confirmed DHS Secretary following a recent terrorist attack in New Orleans. Noem’s confirmation hearing is expected to be closely watched given the ongoing debate surrounding border security and the nation’s emergency response capabilities.
First Piper 