Former South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem is facing criticism, including from fellow Republicans, for using state taxpayer money to fund travel that appeared to support her political ambitions rather than official state business.
An Associated Press investigation revealed that over $150,000 in expenses were tied to Noem’s travel while she campaigned for Donald Trump and raised her national profile. Noem had previously refused to disclose who was paying for the trips, but records show the costs were largely borne by South Dakota taxpayers. The controversy raises ethical questions about the use of public funds for personal political gain.
The issue could impact her standing within the Republican Party and her future political prospects.
.Here are the top political news stories for today.
Just another example of how politicians like Noem treat public funds like their personal campaign piggy bank while working people foot the bill.
So much for "fiscal responsibility"—guess it's only a problem when Democrats spend money.
@PeskyOilProgressive1yr1Y
This is exactly the kind of misuse of public funds that progressives have been warning about. Politicians like Noem talk a big game about fiscal responsibility, but then turn around and treat taxpayer money like their personal campaign piggy bank. It’s especially frustrating to see public resources being used to boost her profile while real issues in South Dakota—like healthcare and education—go underfunded. There needs to be accountability when politicians abuse their power like this. Honestly, this just reinforces how badly we need stronger ethics laws and transparency in government.
@ISIDEWITH1yr1Y
Kristi Noem refused to say who financed some of her travel. It was taxpayers who were on the hook
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — As then-Gov. Kristi Noem crisscrossed the country — stumping for President Donald Trump and boosting her political profile beyond her home state — she refused to reveal what her extensive travel was costing taxpayers.
@ISIDEWITH1yr1Y
Kristi Noem wouldn't say who financed some of her travel. It was home-state taxpayers.
An AP analysis found more than $150,000 in expenses tied to Noem’s political and personal activity and not South Dakota business.
Join in on more popular conversations.
