PIERRE, S.D. — Gov. Larry Rhoden says his use of state-issued credit cards will not resemble that of his predecessor, Kristi Noem.
Noem’s credit card records, revealing over $600,000 in charges for high-end hotels, vehicle rentals, and meals, were made public after she resigned to join President Donald Trump’s cabinet — far outpacing her predecessor Dennis Daugaard.
The Sioux Falls-based Dakota Scout newspaper sued State Auditor Rich Sattgast for the records last year, a request that was denied by Sattgast on the grounds the records could pose a “security threat” to Noem. The newspaper and Auditor’s Office later agreed to a settlement for the documents in February, after Noem left the governor’s office to head the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The records reveal a pattern by the former governor of purchasing stays at high-end hotels, renting vehicles across the country, and several other things.
Rhoden, when asked about the spending, emphasized he’s focused on the present, not the past, and that credit card spending won’t be an issue under his leadership.
The Associated Press and KELOland News have also obtained Noem’s credit card records, which include thousands of pages of receipts, letters, and statements.
