Tag: Kristi Noem

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State’s bill for 2024 flood response and recovery is $3.5 million, officials say

Gary Dickson

In the wake of the June 2024 flooding in South Dakota, recovery costs are estimated at nearly $3.5 million. The state seeks $5 million from the legislature to cover expenses, with FEMA contributing $2.9 million toward community recovery efforts, highlighting ongoing disaster response challenges. Continue reading State’s bill for 2024 flood response and recovery is $3.5 million, officials say

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Attorney general and others know: Noem’s public broadcasting cut threatens public safety

Gary Dickson

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s proposed budget cuts threaten the funding of South Dakota Public Broadcasting, which supports a vital communication network for emergency services and public alerts. The potential loss of over $3.6 million could jeopardize infrastructure relied upon by law enforcement and local emergency responders, endangering public safety. Continue reading Attorney general and others know: Noem’s public broadcasting cut threatens public safety

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Noem’s Cabinet role could be ‘untenable:’ Former Homeland Security chief

Gary Dickson

Jeh Johnson, former Homeland Security Secretary, expressed concerns about South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s potential confirmation as head of the Department of Homeland Security. While her gubernatorial experience may aid her, she faces challenges in managing extensive agency responsibilities and navigating controversial immigration policies under Trump. Tensions between Noem and the White House are anticipated. Continue reading Noem’s Cabinet role could be ‘untenable:’ Former Homeland Security chief

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Be careful what you wish for, Gov. Noem

Gary Dickson

Kristi Noem’s loyalty to Donald Trump has led to her selection as Secretary of Homeland Security in his administration. With a significant departmental budget and responsibilities, Noem faces challenges, especially regarding potential staff purges favoring Trump loyalists. Her experience with border issues and Trump’s volatile hiring practices leaves her job security in question. Continue reading Be careful what you wish for, Gov. Noem

Commentary, Government, South DakotaLeave a comment

Legislators get a taste of reporters’ frustration with Noem administration

Gary Dickson

In an October legislative meeting, South Dakota lawmakers expressed frustration over Department of Revenue Secretary Michael Houdyshell’s refusal to discuss changes following a vehicle title scandal. His silence mirrored ongoing issues with the Noem administration’s transparency. Lawmakers voted to subpoena Houdyshell, reflecting the broader struggles for accountability in state governance. Continue reading Legislators get a taste of reporters’ frustration with Noem administration

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To Whom It May Concern – Election Day, 2024

Gary Dickson

The article discusses Watertown, South Dakota, and its connection to the Big Sioux River, emphasizing its historical significance and current political landscape. It critiques Governor Kristi Noem’s response to recent floods and handles local election dynamics, advocating for Democratic candidate Ray Ring while highlighting tensions within the city council regarding government structure changes. Continue reading To Whom It May Concern – Election Day, 2024

Commentary, Humor, Politics, To Whom It May Concern3 Comments

Siouxland childless cat dude interviews cat about Tuesday’s election

Gary Dickson

The article features a humorous exchange between a cat named Willie and his owner about political opinions, especially regarding Donald Trump and his running mate, J.D. Vance. Through their dialogue, Willie articulates strong views on Trump’s character and the nature of his supporters, likening them to enablers of addiction. Continue reading Siouxland childless cat dude interviews cat about Tuesday’s election

Government, Justice, South Dakota2 Comments

$42,000 lawsuit settlement adds to costs of Noem-ordered border deployments

Gary Dickson

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s troop deployments to the southern border have incurred an additional $42,000 cost to settle a lawsuit by the watchdog group CREW, which sought documents regarding deployment funding. The state spent nearly $500,000 beyond an initial $1 million donation to fund the operations, raising ethical concerns. Continue reading $42,000 lawsuit settlement adds to costs of Noem-ordered border deployments

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Trump ‘honored the Constitution,’ Noem says in convention speech

Gary Dickson

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem praised former President Donald Trump’s commitment to the Constitution at the Republican National Convention, without acknowledging his criminal indictment for subverting it. She also highlighted South Dakota’s economy and policies, but faced criticism from the Democratic Party. Trump was formally nominated for president, and U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance was announced as his running mate. Continue reading Trump ‘honored the Constitution,’ Noem says in convention speech

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Noem, who sent Guard troops to Texas, resists using them for her own state’s flooding

Gary Dickson

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem faces criticism for deploying National Guard to the U.S.-Mexico border but not to assist with flooding in the state, citing costliness. Despite opposition, her spokesperson hints at possible Guard utilization. Noem’s decision comes after allocating funds to previous border deployments and faces backlash from state officials and residents. Continue reading Noem, who sent Guard troops to Texas, resists using them for her own state’s flooding