Kristi Noem is a high-profile American politician, rancher, and public figure known for her conservative leadership, agricultural roots, and rapid rise from local politics to national prominence. Currently serving as the United States Secretary of Homeland Security, Noem’s story blends small-town beginnings with national public service.
Early Life and Background
Kristi Lynn Noem (née Kristi Arnold) was born on November 30, 1971, in Watertown, South Dakota, U.S.
Raised on a family farm and ranch in Hamlin County, Noem grew up working the land alongside her siblings. Her parents, Ron and Corrine Arnold, were farmers and ranchers, instilling in her a strong work ethic and connection to rural America.
In high school, she was crowned South Dakota Snow Queen in 1990, an early taste of public attention that helped build her confidence in public speaking.
Education
Noem attended Northern State University from 1990 to 1994 with plans to complete her degree. However, after her father died in a farming accident in 1994, she paused her studies to return home and help manage the family farm.
Later in life, while serving in the U.S. House of Representatives, she continued her education and earned a B.A. in Political Science from South Dakota State University in 2011.
Physical Stats: Height
According to public biographies, Kristi Noem’s height is approximately 5′ 7½″ (1.71 m).
Political Career
Early Political Years
Noem began her political career in the South Dakota House of Representatives, winning her first election in 2006 and serving through 2010. She was elected assistant majority leader during her final term in the state legislature.
U.S. House of Representatives (2011–2019)
In 2010, Noem won the Republican nomination and went on to serve as South Dakota’s only representative in the U.S. House, holding the seat from 2011 to 2019. During her time in Congress, she focused on conservative policies such as limited government and reduced federal regulation.
Governor of South Dakota (2019–2025)
In 2018, Noem made history by becoming the first female Governor of South Dakota, taking office in 2019. She was reelected in 2022. As governor, she championed lower taxes, fewer regulations, and expanded broadband access in rural areas. Her pandemic response — which avoided statewide lockdowns and mask mandates — earned both praise and criticism.
Secretary of Homeland Security
On January 25, 2025, Kristi Noem was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the United States Secretary of Homeland Security. She resigned as governor of South Dakota to assume this high-profile federal position, becoming a leading figure in national border security and immigration policy.
In this role, she oversees multiple federal agencies including U.S. Customs and Border Protection, FEMA, and the Secret Service.
Family and Personal Life
Kristi Noem married Bryon Noem in 1992. The couple has three children and has often described family as her greatest pride.
Her family has remained rooted in South Dakota, where they ran the family ranch and expanded operations to include a hunting lodge and small business ventures.
Noem is also a grandmother and active in her local community activities, blending her personal and professional life deeply into rural American values.
Net Worth
Kristi Noem’s estimated net worth is generally believed to be in the multi-million-dollar range, drawing income from her political career, family business holdings, and book sales. Various financial profiles have placed her net worth at around $2 million to $5 million, though exact figures vary by source.
Her salary as Homeland Security Secretary exceeds $200,000 annually, and her family’s assets include real estate, ranch holdings, and business interests.
Books and Public Image
Noem has authored multiple books, including Not My First Rodeo and No Going Back, blending political lessons with personal stories. Her candid narratives, including controversial moments, have drawn significant media attention and public debate.
Legacy and Influence
Kristi Noem remains a powerful voice in American conservative politics — a rancher-turned-national leader who has traversed every level of public service from state representative to federal cabinet secretary. Her career continues to shape discussions on governance, individual rights, and national security.
