PIERRE, S.D. (SDBA) — Governor Kristi Noem delivered her seventh—and likely her last–State of the State Address this afternoon (Tuesday) in Pierre before a joint session of the 100th South Dakota Legislature.
Noem reflected on South Dakota’s trailblazing history.
Noem honored Gladys Pyle, the first Republican woman elected to the U.S. Senate, and her role as the state’s first female governor.
Noem highlighted progress in education, healthcare, agriculture, and economic development. She noted record-low unemployment and robust workforce growth.
The second-term governor cited the success of initiatives like the “Freedom Works Here” campaign, which she said has reduced job vacancies by over 7,000 positions.
Noem also claims apprenticeship programs are thriving, preparing workers in fields like education and carpentry.
She unveiled plans for Education Savings Accounts, which aim to expand school choice. Noem says they will not harm public school funding.
In agriculture, Noem emphasized growth through partnerships like Bel Brands’ cheese production expansion, benefiting local farmers.
Noem praised efforts in public safety, disaster response, and conservation projects enhancing outdoor opportunities, especially during historic flooding this past summer in southeast South Dakota.
Finally, as South Dakota prepares for the U.S.’s 250th anniversary in 2026 and a big celebration at Mount Rushmore, Noem reaffirmed her commitment to the state’s freedoms and values.
“South Dakota stands as a beacon of resilience and growth,” she declared, promising continued prosperity.
Tomorrow (Wednesday), Noem will appear before a U.S. Senate committee to be questioned about her appointment by President-elect Donald Trump as Secretary of Homeland Security.
If she is confirmed, Lt. Gov. Larry Rhoden will be sworn in as the next South Dakota governor during the 2025 legislative session.
