South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem is expected to endorse former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in her home state on Friday, according to sources familiar with the plans. Noem’s endorsement has sparked speculation about the role she may play in Trump’s potential third bid for the White House in 2024. While Noem initially distanced herself from Trump after the 2020 midterm elections, she has since changed her tune and shown support for the former president. Noem has remained in contact with Trump and his team and has even received advice from his former campaign manager, Corey Lewandowski.
Although Noem has not confirmed her interest in running for national office, she has taken steps to keep herself in the 2024 spotlight. Campaign ads promoting her state’s low taxes and job opportunities aired during the recent Republican primary debate, and she has also been mentioned as a potential running mate for Trump. Noem has ambitions beyond just being governor, including considering a run for the US Senate in 2022 and being vetted for Trump’s secretary of agriculture in 2016. Republican operatives believe that Noem is positioning herself for a potential role in a Trump administration, either as a vice president or a Cabinet official.
Some Republican strategists predict that Noem’s future may include holding a federal office or even primarying GOP Senator Mike Rounds in 2026. However, while Trump advisers insist that there have been no serious discussions about a potential running mate, Trump has fueled speculation through his social media posts. Trump has mentioned the possibility of a female running mate and has praised allies like New York Representative Elise Stefanik and Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, both of whom are seen as potential candidates for the position.
Ultimately, Trump’s pick for vice president will likely hinge on loyalty and his perception of betrayal. After feeling betrayed by former Vice President Mike Pence, Trump is expected to prioritize loyalty in his selection. While there is no official confirmation about Noem’s endorsement or her future plans, her support for Trump and her efforts to stay in the national spotlight have positioned her as an influential figure in the Republican Party.
Note: This article contains a correction stating that Noem did not attend the August Republican presidential primary debate.