South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has emerged as a potential running mate for former President Donald Trump in 2024, but her chances have been hampered by recent negative headlines stemming from her book. Noem’s self-inflicted controversies, including her admission of shooting her dog for attacking a neighbor’s chickens, have raised questions about her judgment and fitness for the role.
Political strategists have emphasized the importance of avoiding harm when selecting a running mate, and Noem’s recent actions have cast doubt on her ability to provide support to Trump’s candidacy without causing drama. Her seemingly false claim that she met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has further weakened her standing.
Despite Noem’s strengths, including her experience as a two-term governor and her appeal to the Republican base, her recent controversies have overshadowed her candidacy and made her a more contentious choice for the vice presidential slot.
Noem’s troubles have prompted speculation that other high-profile figures, such as South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, Arkansas Governor Sarah Sanders, and Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, may be better positioned to join Trump on the Republican ticket. Trump has given no indication of when he will announce his vice presidential pick, but it is expected to happen shortly before the Republican National Convention in July.
Noem is expected to attend another fundraiser with Trump in New York City on Tuesday, but her chances of securing the nomination appear to have dwindled in light of the controversies surrounding her book.
