South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem (R) recently faced scrutiny for sharing an anecdote about having to euthanize her dog. However, she staunchly defended her decision, explaining that she took the drastic step to ensure the safety of her children.
During an interview on Fox News’s “Hannity,” Noem described the dog as highly dangerous. She explained that the dog had been adopted from a family who found her to be excessively aggressive.
“Noem explained that she faced a difficult decision: ensuring the safety of her young children and others, or dealing with a potentially dangerous animal. Ultimately, she prioritized the well-being of her children.”
The anecdote in her upcoming book has faced intense scrutiny, with The Guardian uncovering it after receiving an advanced copy. This revelation has prompted Democratic governors to take to social media, where they have been mocking Noem by posting pictures with their dogs. Accompanying these images is the caption: “Post a picture with your dog that doesn’t involve shooting them and throwing them in a gravel pit.”
In the book excerpt, it is mentioned that the governor of the Mount Rushmore State made the decision to shoot her 14-month-old German wirehaired pointer named Cricket. The governor acknowledged that it was not a pleasant task, but believed that it was necessary and had to be done.
Noem, who was once considered a strong candidate for former President Trump’s running mate in November, has most likely jeopardized her chances of securing the vice-presidential position. The anecdote, along with other controversies, has left many Republicans puzzled and skeptical about her prospects.
In a similar vein, some drew comparisons to a political incident during Sen. Mitt Romney’s (R-Utah) 2012 presidential campaign. He faced criticism for a story involving him tying his dog to the roof of his car during a family road trip.
The comparison was challenged by the senator earlier this week when he vehemently stated, “I did not consume my dog. I did not harm my dog. I had an affectionate bond with my dog, and my dog reciprocated that love.”
In recent days, Noem has reaffirmed her decision.
In a recent post on the social platform X, the author acknowledged the concerns expressed by certain individuals regarding a 20-year-old incident involving Cricket, one of the working dogs at their ranch. The forthcoming book, titled “No Going Back,” contains a collection of personal stories that encompass both the highs and lows of the author’s life, including challenging moments, difficult decisions, and valuable lessons learned.