Official statements from Gov. Noem's office or verified public appearances.

Gov. Noem Criticized for Killing 14-Month-Old 'Untrainable' Puppy in Memoir

Apr 27, 2024, 05:39 PM

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem faces severe backlash after admitting in her memoir to shooting her 14-month-old wirehaired pointer, Cricket, whom she was training for pheasant hunting, in a gravel pit. Noem described the dog as 'untrainable' and 'dangerous,' and mentioned that Cricket had bitten a chicken too hard, expressing her dislike by stating she 'hated' the dog. Additionally, on the same day, she also killed a goat after missing it on her first shot. The incidents have sparked widespread condemnation, with critics labeling her actions as cruel and questioning her suitability for political leadership. The controversy has significantly impacted her public image and raised doubts about her potential vice-presidential candidacy alongside Donald Trump.