Rekindled National Standing
Noem is actively engaging in a $5 million national advertising campaign, funded by Covid relief funds and aimed at enticing more workers to South Dakota. Simultaneously, this effort is bolstering her national profile. She has become a regular presence on Fox News, offering a platform to connect with conservative viewers. Crucially, Noem is avoiding the potential pitfalls of her own presidential run, bypassing tough questions about January 6 or Trump’s legal troubles, and sidestepping the pressure of a primary debate.
Most notably, Governor Noem is set to share the stage with former President Trump during a GOP fundraiser in Rapid City, South Dakota. This event is expected to serve as the backdrop for her endorsement of Trump, further cementing her alignment with the former president.
Running Mate Aspirations
Kristi Noem has forged a close relationship with Donald Trump, positioning herself as a potential running mate. When asked about the possibility of sharing the ticket with Trump, she responded with an affirmative “of course, I would consider it.” Her taxpayer-funded advertisements, which have aired not only in Washington, D.C., but also in the homes of GOP voters, have contributed to her increased visibility.
Corey Lewandowski, Trump’s former campaign manager, who has sporadically advised Noem, will accompany Trump to Rapid City, indicating a direct link between Noem and the former president. Despite previous controversies, Noem has maintained a strong alliance with Lewandowski, who has described himself as an “overzealous volunteer” for her.
While Noem initially faced competition from another prominent conservative governor, Ron DeSantis of Florida, who took a confrontational stance against Trump, she chose a more measured approach. Noem emphasized the challenges of defeating Trump and adopted a patient strategy.
Growing National Strategy
Noem’s strategy has not gone unnoticed in South Dakota, where observers have long suspected her aspirations for a national political role. Her frequent appearances on Fox News and clear efforts to raise her national profile align with this strategy.
It’s evident that she is positioning herself for either a vice presidential nomination or, if circumstances change, a presidential run to carry the “MAGA” banner. Noem’s outreach extends to Trump, including gifts like a replica of Mt. Rushmore with his likeness carved into it, presented during his July Fourth campaign speech in 2020. She also hosted a fundraiser at Mar-a-Lago ahead of her 2022 reelection campaign, featuring appearances by Donald Trump Jr. and Kimberly Guilfoyle.
Ian Fury, Noem’s official spokesperson, confirmed that she would consider a vice presidential offer if extended.
While Noem hails from a state with only three electoral votes, which may not significantly contribute to the Republican tally, her presence in the veepstakes should not be underestimated. As Dave Carney, a veteran Republican strategist, notes, “You can’t run for vice president, but Noem has done a good job.”
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