Former Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem celebrated the start of pheasant hunting season in South Dakota with a post on X. The post included a photo of her in hunting gear, holding a gun, and standing next to a dog. This image garnered numerous concerned comments online.
The post emerged after it was announced that Noem is no longer the special envoy to the Shield of the Americas coalition. Previously dismissed as DHS secretary in March, she took this role. Noem shared a document on X indicating that the position was intended as a six-month appointment. She continues to serve as a senior adviser within the State Department.
Newsweek reached out to Noem’s representatives and the U.S. Department of State for comments.
Who Is Kristi Noem?
Noem was South Dakota’s governor from 2019 to 2025 before becoming DHS secretary under President Donald Trump. A known ally of Trump, she was once seen as a potential running mate for the 2024 election. This speculation dwindled after excerpts from her memoir, No Going Back, were released. Critics reacted strongly to her account of shooting her dog, Cricket.
Noem has also been in headlines for filing for divorce from her husband, Bryon Noem. Reports alleged Bryon led a double life involving communication with fetish models.
Kristi Noem’s Role as Special Envoy
On Friday, news revealed Noem’s role as special envoy to the Shield of the Americas concluded. This Trump administration initiative focused on security in the Western Hemisphere, addressing drug trafficking and illegal migration. As special envoy, Noem coordinated with regional leaders and reported to Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau. She now serves as a senior advisor to Landau, continuing work on the Shield of the Americas.
On X, Noem posted a screenshot of a statement from the Department of State regarding her status change. It read, “The Special Envoy to the Shield of the Americas role was always a six-month appointment. Secretary Noem remains at the State Department as a Senior Advisor.”
Her post on X portraying a dog raised concern. “Save the dog,” comments flooded.
Pheasant Hunting Tradition
Noem’s post expressed her wishes for hunters. “Happy Opener, South Dakota! Foster and I wish you good luck. Pheasant hunting is tradition,” she wrote. “As Governor, I promoted the Second Century Initiative, aiding landowners in creating wildlife habitats.”
Noem’s photo, featuring a Vizsla dog, attracted 2.2 million views and ignited thousands of comments. Users worried about the dog’s safety. Similar reactions appeared on Facebook.
Pheasant hunting in South Dakota runs from October 17 to January 31. Dogs assist hunters by locating and signaling birds.
Killing of Her Dog Cricket Explained
Excerpts from Noem’s book revealed her controversial action. She described shooting her dog, Cricket, after it attacked chickens and attempted to bite her. Noem labeled Cricket “untrainable” and admitted, “I hated that dog.”
In a Fox News interview, Noem defended herself by saying, “It was a choice as a mom. My children’s safety versus a dangerous dog.”
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