President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Kristi Noem, 53, to lead the Department of Homeland Security, and she’s gearing up for her Senate confirmation hearing this Friday. While she’s expected to pass with flying colors, her role as homeland security secretary might be a bit more focused compared to those who held the position before her.
Curious about Kristi Noem? Wondering who she is and what makes her the right pick for this role? Keep reading! We’ve got everything you need to know—her background, achievements, and even details about her measurements and net worth.
Kristi Noem Biography
Kristi Noem, born on November 30, 1971, in Watertown, South Dakota, is an American politician, rancher, and businesswoman.
She is the 33rd Governor of South Dakota and the state’s first female governor, serving since 2019. Known for her conservative values and strong stance on limited government, Noem has become a prominent figure in the Republican Party.
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kristi Lynn Noem |
| Date of Birth | November 30, 1971 |
| Place of Birth | Watertown, South Dakota, USA |
| Age | 53 (as of 2025) |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Religion | Christian |
| Education | – Hamlin High School |
| – South Dakota State University (B.A. in Political Science, 2011) | |
| – Attended Mount Marty College and Northern State University | |
| Occupation | Politician, Rancher, Businesswoman |
| Political Affiliation | Republican Party |
| Current Position | 33rd Governor of South Dakota (since January 2019) |
| Previous Positions | – Member, South Dakota House of Representatives (2007–2011) |
| – U.S. Representative, South Dakota’s At-Large Congressional District (2011–2019) | |
| Spouse | Bryon Noem |
| Children | Kassidy, Kennedy, and Booker Noem |
| Residence | Castlewood, South Dakota |
| Net Worth | Approximately $2 million |
| Key Achievements | – First female Governor of South Dakota |
| – Advocated for economic growth during the COVID-19 pandemic | |
| – Signed legislation on transgender athletes in sports | |
| – Focused on rural development and agriculture | |
| Major Policies | – Opposed COVID-19 mandates and lockdowns |
| – Supported Second Amendment rights | |
| – Advocated for pro-life policies | |
| – Promoted tax cuts and a business-friendly environment | |
| Hobbies | Ranching, horseback riding, hunting, and outdoor activities |
| Awards & Recognition | – Honored for her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic |
| Books Authored | “Not My First Rodeo: Lessons from the Heartland” (2022) |
| Social Media | – Twitter: @KristiNoem |
| – Instagram: @govkristinoem |
Noem grew up on her family’s ranch and farm in Hamlin County, South Dakota, where she learned the value of hard work and rural life. After her father’s tragic death in a farming accident, Noem returned home to manage the family ranch at the age of 22, stepping into a leadership role early in life.
While working on the ranch, she pursued her education and eventually completed her bachelor’s degree in political science at South Dakota State University in 2011.
Who Is Kristi Noem’s Husband?
Kristi Noem is married to Bryon Noem, a small business owner and rancher. Bryon has been a steady and supportive partner throughout Kristi’s career in politics. Together, they manage their family ranch and property in South Dakota, maintaining their deep connection to rural life and their agricultural roots.
Bryon is known for his community involvement and his role as the “First Gentleman” of South Dakota, a title he holds with pride. He has taken on initiatives to support small businesses and promote community well-being, complementing Kristi’s leadership as governor.
Does Kristi Noem Have Children?
Yes, Kristi Noem and Bryon Noem are proud parents of three children: Kassidy, Kennedy, and Booker. The Noem family remains close-knit, with their children often participating in family ranching activities and public events.
Kristi has frequently mentioned how her children inspire her work, especially when it comes to policies that affect future generations. The Noem family’s focus on faith, family values, and hard work has been a central theme in Kristi’s personal and professional life.
Kristi Noem Measurements
Kristi Noem is a public figure whose professional achievements are well-documented. While specific personal details such as her body measurements are generally considered private, some publicly available information includes:
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 128 pounds (58 kg) |
| Body Measurements | 31-24-35 inches (79-61-89 cm) |
| Shoe Size | 7 (U.S.) |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
What is Kristi Noem’s height and weight?
Kristi Noem is approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall (170 cm) and weighs around 128 pounds (58 kg).
What are Kristi Noem’s body measurements?
Her body measurements are reported to be 31 inches (chest), 24 inches (waist), and 35 inches (hips).
Please note that while some of this information is publicly available, personal details such as body measurements are generally considered private and may not be entirely accurate.
Kristi Noem Political Career
South Dakota House of Representatives (2007–2011)
Kristi Noem began her political journey as a member of the South Dakota House of Representatives, where she focused on issues affecting agriculture, rural communities, and small businesses.
U.S. House of Representatives (2011–2019)
In 2010, Noem was elected to represent South Dakota’s at-large congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives.
During her tenure, she served on influential committees, including the House Agriculture Committee, where she advocated for rural development and agricultural policies.
Governor of South Dakota (2019–Present)
Noem was elected as the Governor of South Dakota in 2018 and assumed office in January 2019. She was reelected for a second term in 2022.
As governor, Noem gained national attention for her hands-off approach to COVID-19 restrictions, emphasizing personal responsibility over government mandates. Her decisions were polarizing but praised by many conservatives. She has focused on economic growth, cutting taxes, and defending Second Amendment rights.
She has also been vocal on cultural issues, such as gender in sports, signing legislation to limit transgender athletes’ participation in girls’ and women’s sports.
Key Policies and Initiatives
- Economic Development: Noem has prioritized creating a business-friendly environment in South Dakota, boasting one of the nation’s strongest economies during the COVID-19 pandemic. She has actively promoted the state as a destination for businesses and individuals seeking lower taxes and fewer regulations.
- Agriculture: As a rancher, Noem has always championed agricultural policies and rural development, advocating for farmers and ranchers in her state.
- Cultural Issues: Noem has supported legislation addressing issues like abortion restrictions, gun rights, and limiting government overreach.
Kristi Noem is often mentioned as a potential Republican candidate for national office due to her strong conservative credentials and high-profile governance of South Dakota. Her leadership during the pandemic solidified her standing among GOP supporters as a proponent of individual liberty and limited government intervention.
What Is Kristi Noem’s Net Worth?
Kristi Noem’s estimated net worth is approximately $2 million, reflecting her success as a rancher, politician, and businesswoman. Her financial standing is a result of her dedication to her family’s agricultural roots, her public service career, and personal investments.
Sources of Kristi Noem’s Wealth:
- Family Ranching Business Kristi and her husband, Bryon Noem, own and operate a ranch in South Dakota, which has been a cornerstone of their financial stability. Growing up on a farm and ranch, Kristi learned early on the importance of hard work and entrepreneurship, values that continue to sustain their business.
- Political Career As the Governor of South Dakota, Kristi earns a salary in line with her role in public service. While public office isn’t her primary source of wealth, it has added to her financial portfolio. Additionally, her tenure as a U.S. Representative from 2011 to 2019 contributed to her earnings.
- Book and Public Appearances Kristi published a memoir, “Not My First Rodeo: Lessons from the Heartland”, in 2022. The book shares her life experiences, values, and lessons learned, generating additional income through sales and related engagements.
- Investments and Property Holdings The Noem family also owns property in South Dakota, which contributes to their overall net worth. Their investments in agriculture and real estate have been instrumental in building financial security.
Kristi Noem has demonstrated a commitment to using her resources to support her community and family. As governor, she has worked to create economic opportunities for others in South Dakota, encouraging entrepreneurship and rural development.
Kristi Noem’s story from rancher to governor highlights her resilience, leadership, and commitment to her values. As South Dakota’s first female governor, she has made history while advocating for policies rooted in conservatism, family, and economic growth.
