(PIERRE, SD) – The 33rd Governor of the State of South Dakota has resigned.
Kristi Noem gave her notice of resignation to Lieutenant Governor Larry Rhoden Saturday after being confirmed for Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security by the United States Senate.
The Republican governor served in the position for six years.
“Through my tenure, South Dakotans enjoyed a greater level of freedom than anywhere else,” Noem said in her resignation letter. “Our State is safer, stronger and freer for our kids and our grandkids.”
The South Dakota Constitution says Rhoden assumes the role of Governor. On Saturday afternoon, he detailed some details into the transition.
“Until now, I have kept my extensive preparations for this succession to myself. I would have loved to have spoken openly sooner, but the time was not yet appropriate,” said Governor Rhoden. “South Dakotans should rest assured that I’m ready to serve as your Governor.”
Succession planning began shortly after President Trump announced his nomination of Kristi Noem as Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security in November. Rhoden held months of briefings and meetings with Noem and a number of current and former state officials and friends. Cabinet and staff fully cooperated with Rhoden’s preparation efforts.
