South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, labeled as a ‘puppy killer’ by critics, has ignited a firestorm on social media with explosive claims in her upcoming book, scheduled for release on May 7. Among her bold assertions, Noem alleges to have met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during her tenure on the House Armed Services Committee from 2013 to 2015. However, experts in North Korean affairs have swiftly dismissed her claims as highly improbable.
Noem, in her book, claims to have had the opportunity to meet with world leaders during her travels abroad. While she provides no concrete details of her alleged meeting with Kim, she writes, ‘I remember when I met with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un. I’m sure he underestimated me, having no clue about my experience staring down little tyrants (I’d been a children’s pastor, after all).’ She emphasizes the importance of resolve, preparation, and determination in dealing with foreign leaders, highlighting the value of her experiences in honing her negotiation skills.
Noem also claims to have canceled a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron during her term as governor last year. However, Macron’s staff has reportedly denied that any meeting was ever scheduled.
The governor’s claims have drawn widespread skepticism and mockery online. Bill Kristol, Editor at large & Morning Shots co-author, tweeted, ‘It turns out that Gov. Noem is not just a puppy-killer. She’s also a fantasist.’
Ian Fury, a spokesman for Noem, initially declined to provide details of her meetings with world leaders, stating that any such information would have been included in the book. However, hours later, he announced that the publisher would be addressing ‘conflated world leaders’ names’ before the book’s release.
Noem has also claimed to have met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Jordan’s King Abdullah II, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
