Peace Garden News

By a vote of 59 to 34, the United States Senate has confirmed Kristi Noem as Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer from North Dakota supported her nomination. Noem and Cramer have previously served together in the U.S. House of Representatives for three terms. The South Dakota Governor requested Cramer's assistance as her Senate "Sherpa" to help navigate the confirmation process.

Senator Cramer expressed his support, stating, "Kristi Noem is tough and determined, and the right person to implement President Trump’s number one promise to the American people." He emphasized the need for her leadership in addressing illegal immigration, drug flow, border security, and community safety. "I applaud the Senate for swiftly confirming her nomination," he added.

Cramer also played a role in introducing Noem during the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hearing alongside Senate Majority Leader John Thune. In his introduction, Cramer remarked on Noem's qualifications: "Securing the homeland is our first Constitutional priority... Naturally, he asked the toughest, smartest, most capable protector he knows, Kristi Noem, to lead DHS."

Noem's nomination was favorably reported out of committee with a 13-2 vote last week. During her confirmation hearing, Cramer highlighted strong support for Noem's leadership through endorsements from key stakeholders such as leaders from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe in North Dakota and South Dakota.