South Dakota’s governor, Kristi Noem, has been formally prohibited by Indigenous groups from setting foot on tribal lands within her own state.
The governor’s latest move to impose a sweeping ban is just another chapter in the ongoing conflict between Noem and Indigenous tribes. This comes after the governor’s controversial remarks, where she linked tribal leaders to international drug cartels.
Noem, a devoted follower of Donald Trump, has once again found herself embroiled in scandal. This recent controversy adds to her already controversial reputation. The Governor faced intense criticism following the revelation in her book that she had heartlessly shot her own family dog and goat, as reported by The Guardian.
The Flandreau Santee Sioux tribe (FSST) of South Dakota made the decision to prohibit Noem from accessing their property. This move marks the final action taken by the state’s nine official Native American tribes to enforce such a ban.
According to the Argus Leader, some members of FSST have expressed their concerns and discomfort regarding Governor Noem’s presence on their reservation. They have reportedly urged their leaders to ban her, pointing out that other tribes have already implemented such bans.
Tyler Rambeau, the executive administrative assistant of the FSST Homeowners Assistance Fund, emphasized the importance of showing solidarity with the Oฤhรฉthi ล akรณwiล, the Sioux tribes in South Dakota.
“We don’t want to be on the wrong side of history in this moment,” he added.
Noem was once seen as a potential running mate for Trump in this election. However, her chances may have been negatively affected by her comments about shooting animals. In March, she made a claim that tribal leaders were “personally benefiting” from international drug cartels. These remarks caused a great deal of outrage.
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has stated that she believes certain tribal leaders are personally benefiting from the presence of cartels in the area. Despite facing constant attacks, Noem remains committed to fighting for the people who are directly affected by the situation. She receives numerous calls and texts from residents of Pine Ridge who express their fear and appeal for assistance, prompting her determination to address their concerns.
According to Keloland News, Noem made additional comments suggesting that Indigenous children face difficulties in school because their parents do not provide them with sufficient support.
In a statement shared with CNN, Noem did not directly address the ban. However, she expressed her desire to work together with tribal leaders in the future.
“I simply aim to address the genuine challenges that certain regions of Indian country are currently grappling with,” she expressed.
After being accused of using controversial rhetoric to gain favor with Trump, several tribes decided to ban Noem earlier this year.
“Our people are being exploited for her political advantage,” remarked Frank Star Comes Out, the president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, in an interview with the Associated Press.
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