South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem faced immediate criticism after disclosing in her new book that she euthanized her 14-month-old dog, Cricket. Surprisingly, even figures within former President Donald Trump’s inner circle, including Steve Bannon and Donald Trump Jr., expressed doubts about Noem’s judgment during a discussion on Trump Jr.’s show “Triggered.”
Bannon described Noem as “a little too based,” a term often used to denote individuals who act without regard for political correctness, while Trump Jr. remarked that shooting the dog was “not ideal.” The conversation then veered towards the vice presidential selection process, with Noem being a potential contender. Trump Jr. advocated for expediting the selection to provide media defense for his father amidst legal challenges.
Despite their laughter during the exchange, both Bannon and Trump Jr. voiced concerns over Noem’s actions. Noem’s revelation about Cricket’s death in her book, “No Going Back: The Truth on What’s Wrong with Politics and How We Move America Forward,” further fueled the controversy. In the book, Noem recounted Cricket’s disruption of a pheasant hunt, subsequent attack on a family’s chickens, and attempt to bite her. Noem admitted to euthanizing Cricket and a goat on the same day.
The revelation drew criticism from various quarters, including conservatives and within the MAGA movement. Even figures like Laura Loomer expressed dismay over the incident. Noem defended her actions, stating that such decisions are common on a farm.
The backlash from influential figures like Bannon and Trump Jr. could potentially impact Noem’s vice presidential aspirations. Trump Jr. has been advocating for a vice presidential candidate who embodies a fighting spirit, citing individuals like Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, or media personality Tucker Carlson as potential contenders.
