South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem’s potential rise into contention as a vice presidential candidate in the 2024 campaign cycle has been marred by recent missteps. Once considered a top potential running mate for former President Donald Trump, she has since fallen off his shortlist, according to sources. Noem’s latest controversy stems from her upcoming book, “No Going Back: The Truth on What’s Wrong with Politics and How We Move America Forward,” where she describes controversial actions including shooting a dog she deemed “untrainable” and a goat. This has further diminished her standing in Trump’s orbit, confirming to skeptics that she should not be considered for the position.
The launch of Noem’s book has posed challenges for her candidacy for vice president. The anecdotes of shooting a dog and a goat have drawn criticism and raised questions about her judgment. Noem has defended her actions as necessary and reflective of her ability to make tough decisions when needed, but the controversy has led to backlash from politicians and the public. Some Republicans have come to her defense, citing the differences in rural life, while others have expressed concerns about the impact of these actions on her political future.
Despite facing backlash and criticism, Noem has remained steadfast in defending her actions. She has appeared on Fox News to explain her decision to shoot the dog, emphasizing the danger it posed to her family and business. Noem has maintained that she does not shy away from difficult decisions and believes in facing the truth head-on, unlike many politicians who avoid tough choices. While some have questioned her judgment in sharing these stories in her book, she has stood by her actions and the reasoning behind them.
Although Noem’s actions have garnered private criticism from Trump himself, the former president’s main concern seems to be her decision to disclose the controversial anecdotes and her handling of the fallout. Trump appears to be more dismayed by her attempts to do damage control than the actual stories themselves. Noem’s missteps have further eroded her standing in Trump’s orbit and among potential vice presidential candidates, making it unlikely that she will regain consideration for the position. The controversy surrounding her book has overshadowed her political achievements and raised doubts about her judgment in leadership roles, potentially impacting her future aspirations in the Republican Party.
