Kristi Noem's Statue Unveiling Marred by Personal Turmoil

WHO:

Alternet - Kristi Noem, former South Dakota Governor, is currently serving as special envoy for the Shield of the Americas, a position created by President Trump.

Alternet - John Thune, Senate Majority Leader and Republican Senator from South Dakota.

Alternet - Larry Rhoden, current Governor of South Dakota and Noem's former lieutenant governor.

NY Post - Corey Lewandowski, Noem's onetime adviser at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

WHAT:

Alternet - A bronze statue of Kristi Noem was unveiled in Pierre, South Dakota, as part of a project to honor all former governors of the state.

Alternet - The statue cost $150,000, which is more than previous statues that cost $78,000.

Alternet - Noem stated she is not planning to run for U.S. Senate in 2028 but did not rule out future campaigns.

Alternet - Noem expressed confidence in her ability to win future elections, stating, “Oh, I wouldn’t take it off the table.”

Alternet - The statue depicts Noem leading her horse, Iceman, by the reins.

NY Post - Corey Lewandowski is planning to challenge John Thune for the Senate in 2028, with Noem potentially involved.

WHERE:

Alternet - The statue was unveiled outdoors in Pierre, South Dakota, at the entrance to the Hilger’s Gulch nature area near the Capitol complex.

Alternet - The statue is part of Pierre’s Trail of Governors.

WHEN:

Alternet - Noem stated she is not planning to run for Senate in 2028.

Alternet - The statue unveiling occurred in front of a crowd of about 100 people.

WHY:

Alternet - The statue was commissioned to honor all former governors of South Dakota.

HOW:

Alternet - The statue was funded through donations, with the largest contribution being at least $68,000 from the late Foster Friess.

(UPDATED August 8, 2026 04:09 UTC)

A bronze statue of Kristi Noem was unveiled in Pierre, South Dakota, to honor all former governors of the state, depicting her leading her horse, Iceman, by the reins. The statue, which cost $150,000 funded by donations, was unveiled in front of a crowd of about 100 people at the entrance to the Hilger’s Gulch nature area near the Capitol complex. While Noem stated she is not planning to run for Senate in 2028, she expressed confidence in her ability to win future elections, saying, “Oh, I wouldn’t take it off the table.”