Kristi Noem Considers Senate Run Amid Scrutiny and Political Shifts
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is facing increasing pressure and scrutiny following the January 24 shooting of Alex Pretti by Customs and Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis. This, coupled with a strained relationship with the Trump White House, has fueled speculation that she may challenge Senator Mike Rounds in South Dakota’s June Republican primary.
Political Landscape in South Dakota
Political allies of Senator Rounds have begun preparations for a potential challenge from Noem, though they remain skeptical she will ultimately run. A successful primary bid would require Noem to register and collect 2,171 signatures by the finish of next month. While a Noem advisor stated she has no current plans to leave her post, a Senate seat could provide a platform for defense against potential investigations into her tenure at the Department of Homeland Security, particularly if Democrats regain control of the House.
White House Frustration and Shifting Responsibilities
In recent weeks, Noem has stepped back from a public leadership role in immigration enforcement, with President Trump increasingly relying on White House “border czar” Tom Homan. White House officials have reportedly expressed frustration with Noem’s performance, and Republican midterm strategists are concerned about the political fallout from her deportation strategies.
Potential Motivations for a Senate Run
A Senate seat would offer Noem a professional staff and fundraising capabilities to defend herself against potential investigations. The possibility of a Noem run has prompted discussions among Trump advisors about delaying any changes to DHS leadership until after the primary filing deadline. One national Republican strategist reportedly stated that Senator Rounds “would lose to a dead dog,” though allies of Rounds dispute this assessment, pointing to his successful track record in statewide elections.
Past Conflicts and Current Challenges
Noem and Rounds have a history of occasional public clashes. Rounds publicly criticized Noem’s decision to detail the killing of her family dog in her book, stating it didn’t “assist.” Trump and Rounds have disagreed on the outcome of the 2020 election, though Trump later endorsed Rounds.
Other Political Options
Beyond a Senate run, Noem could also seek to reclaim her former U.S. House seat, which will be vacated next year by Representative Dusty Johnson, who is running for governor. She has also previously expressed interest in being a vice-presidential candidate or launching a presidential campaign.
Department of Homeland Security Shutdown
The situation is further complicated by a partial government shutdown caused by congressional Democrats’ refusal to approve a new budget for Noem’s department. Republicans argue that Democratic calls for Noem’s removal make an immediate firing by Trump less likely, as he has historically been reluctant to yield to political pressure regarding his cabinet members.