South Dakota
What is the controversy surrounding South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem and Kim Jong Un?
Encounter with Kim Jong Un: Fact or Fiction?
In her memoir, Noem recounts a purported meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during her tenure as South Dakota’s representative in Congress. She describes the encounter as part of her global diplomatic engagements. However, doubts arose regarding the accuracy of this assertion, prompting Noem’s spokesperson to clarify that the mention of Kim Jong Un was an error, as mentioned in a report by TIME. Ian Fury stated that the book’s publisher would address the inclusion of the North Korean leader among world figures, attributing it to a mistake.
VP Contender Status and Fallout
Before the controversy surrounding her memoir surfaced, Noem was considered a potential Vice Presidential candidate for former President Donald Trump. However, reports indicate that she had fallen off the shortlist even before these revelations emerged. The book’s controversies have brought further scrutiny to Noem’s political standing and raised questions about her suitability for higher office.
Memoir’s Canine claims
Aside from the purported encounter with Kim Jong Un, Noem’s memoir drew criticism for her admission of shooting her 14-month-old dog, Cricket. Noem justified her actions by citing the dog’s aggressive behavior, which allegedly posed a threat to livestock and people. This revelation sparked outrage among animal welfare advocates and the public, further overshadowing the book’s release.
Defending Her Actions
In response to the backlash, Noem defended her decision to euthanize Cricket, stating that South Dakota law permits the disposal of dogs that attack and kill livestock. She emphasized her commitment to upholding the law and assuming responsibility, whether in ranch management or politics. Despite facing condemnation, Noem reiterated her stance on adhering to legal mandates and fulfilling her obligations as a rancher, pet owner, and community member, according to a TIME magazine article.
Political Career and Legacy
Kristi Noem, a Republican, made history as South Dakota’s first female governor, securing reelection in 2022 after serving in Congress since 2011. However, the controversies surrounding her memoir have raised questions about her leadership and judgment, potentially impacting her political trajectory and legacy.
FAQs
What is the ethnicity of the governor of South Dakota?
Kristi Noem, born to Ron and Corinne Arnold in Watertown, South Dakota, spent her formative years with her siblings on their family ranch and farm in rural Hamlin County. With Norwegian ancestry, Noem graduated from Hamlin High School in 1990, where she was crowned South Dakota Snow Queen.
How many children does the governor of South Dakota have?
Governor Noem is nurturing her three children, Kassidy, Kennedy, and Booker, alongside her husband Bryon, fostering a strong bond rooted in familial love.
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SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) – 605 Day at the Smoking Mule in Chamberlain is coming up on June 5.
Owner Erica Sperl and General Manager Dayre Evans joined Dakota News Now with the details.
“So, the Smoking Mule is in Chamberlain, right along the banks of the Missouri River. We got this idea a couple of years ago, where we wanted to have a ‘605 Day’ and celebrate South Dakota businesses,” said Sperl.
“Because we’re right in the center of the state, we get a ton of travelers coming through. So, we kind of feel like a little mini tourist spot. We’re always telling people where to go and what to check out. And so, that’s where the idea came from. Just inviting businesses to join us for the day. Little vendors, big vendors, food, clothes, whatever it is. Just to kind of celebrate the awesomeness of South Dakota.”
“Last year, we had about ten vendors on site. This year, we’re about, just almost to thirty, there’s some more rolling in,” said Evans.
There’s everything from tattoo artists from Winner, South Dakota, on site. There are hand-wrapped floral bouquets, home decor from some local Chamberlain businesses, Coffee Cantina, a coffee shop, on-site, doing drinks all day, and a slushie truck. We have kids face painting, we have family mini sessions right by the river, there’s a cigar shop, there’s breweries on site, including Palace City out of Mitchell.”
There will also be a minno race and a performance from the Rewind Band to end the night, along with much more!
The event will be at the Smoking Mule starting at 12:00 pm on June 5, 2026.
Watch the full interview above to learn more.
Copyright 2026 Dakota News Now. All rights reserved.
The South Dakota Lottery offers multiple draw games for those aiming to win big.
Here’s a look at April 26, 2026, results for each game:
Winning Millionaire for Life numbers from April 26 drawing
02-03-06-17-56, Bonus: 03
Check Millionaire for Life payouts and previous drawings here.
Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results
Are you a winner? Here’s how to claim your prize
- Prizes of $100 or less: Can be claimed at any South Dakota Lottery retailer.
- Prizes of $101 or more: Must be claimed from the Lottery. By mail, send a claim form and a signed winning ticket to the Lottery at 711 E. Wells Avenue, Pierre, SD 57501.
- Any jackpot-winning ticket for Dakota Cash or Lotto America, top prize-winning ticket for Lucky for Life, or for the second prizes for Powerball and Mega Millions must be presented in person at a Lottery office. A jackpot-winning Powerball or Mega Millions ticket must be presented in person at the Lottery office in Pierre.
When are the South Dakota Lottery drawings held?
- Powerball: 9:59 p.m. CT on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
- Mega Millions: 10 p.m. CT on Tuesday and Friday.
- Lucky for Life: 9:38 p.m. CT daily.
- Lotto America: 9:15 p.m. CT on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
- Dakota Cash: 9 p.m. CT on Wednesday and Saturday.
- Millionaire for Life: 10:15 p.m. CT daily.
This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a South Dakota editor. You can send feedback using this form.
The WNBA came to Sioux Falls for the first time on Saturday, and it “couldn’t have been a bigger hit.” The Mercury defeated the Sky 108-104 in a preseason exhibition before a sellout crowd of 3,357 at the Sanford Pentagon. The Mercury are coached by South Dakota native Nate Tibbetts, and most of the fans in attendance were “decked out in either purple or orange.” This was “more than a basketball game.” It was a “homecoming for Tibbetts,” but also a “historic moment for women’s sports in South Dakota.” The WNBA has never been to South Dakota (SIOUX FALLS LIVE, 4/26). Lines went “out the door more than an hour before tip-off.” Basketball fans “traveled from around the region to take in the game and witness history” (DAKOTA NEWS NOW, 4/26).
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