A South Dakota Tribe LIFTS Ban On Kristi Noem In Time for Confirmation!

A South Dakota tribe has lifted its ban on Governor Kristi Noem, just in time for her confirmation hearing as Homeland Security Secretary.

At a Glance

  • The Flandreau Santee Sioux tribe rescinded its ban on Gov. Kristi Noem
  • The ban was initially imposed after Noem’s controversial comments about tribal leaders
  • Noem apologized for the misunderstanding and sought advice on future communications
  • The tribe’s decision comes ahead of Noem’s confirmation hearing for Homeland Security Secretary
  • Other South Dakota tribes have yet to lift their bans on Noem

Tribal Ban Lifted as Noem Prepares for Confirmation

The Flandreau Santee Sioux tribe in South Dakota has rescinded its ban on Governor Kristi Noem entering their territories – just in time!

This decision comes at a crucial time as Noem prepares for her confirmation hearing as the next Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, a position to which she has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump.

The tribe’s press release stated, “The Governor issued an apology to us for the misunderstanding, which was exacerbated by misinformation.”

This apology and subsequent discussions appear to have paved the way for reconciliation between the governor and the tribe.

You may remember the strange reason she was banned in the first place.

It was initially imposed after Noem made controversial comments suggesting that tribal leaders were catering to drug cartels. This led to strained relations between the Governor and Native American communities in South Dakota. In fact, Noem had been banned by all nine tribes in the state, highlighting the severity of the situation.

“Since our first meeting, the Governor has shown us that she is committed to protecting the people of South Dakota including the citizens of the nine Tribal Nations, who share mutual borders with the state,” the tribe’s press release said.

The lifting of the ban by the Flandreau Santee Sioux tribe marks a significant shift in the political landscape of South Dakota. It remains to be seen whether other tribes will follow suit.

Noem’s Apology and Path Forward

Governor Noem not only apologized for the misunderstanding but also sought advice on how to improve communications with tribal communities moving forward.

As Noem prepares for her confirmation hearing, scheduled for Friday, she carries with her not only the support of the Flandreau Santee Sioux tribe but also endorsements from at least eight police groups or unions, including a Border Patrol agents’ union. The International Association of Fire Fighters has also endorsed Noem, citing her understanding of emergency management.