Kristi Noem is a well-known American politician who serves as the United States Secretary of Homeland Security. She has been in the public eye for many years as a prominent Republican figure and conservative leader. People are curious about her personal life and background. This article will tell you everything you need to know about her.
Many people want to learn about Kristi Noem’s height, age, and family details. She has built a successful career in politics, from her rural South Dakota roots to national leadership. Her net worth and biography are topics of great interest. Let’s explore the complete story of her life and achievements.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Kristi Lynn Arnold Noem |
| Date of Birth | November 30, 1971 |
| Age | 53 years old (as of 2025) |
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) |
| Birthplace | Watertown, South Dakota, USA |
| Current Position | U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security |
| Political Party | Republican |
| Spouse | Bryon Noem |
| Children | 3 (Kassidy, Kennedy, Booker) |
| Education | South Dakota State University |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1-5 million |
| Years as Governor | 2019 – 2025 |
| Previous Role | U.S. Representative (2011-2019) |
Early Life & Background
Kristi Lynn Arnold Noem was born on November 30, 1971, in Watertown, South Dakota. She grew up on her family’s ranch and farm in rural Hamlin County near Hazel, South Dakota. Her childhood was filled with hard work and country life on the Great Plains. She learned the values of dedication and responsibility from a young age. Her parents, Ron and Corinne Arnold, taught her important lessons about family and community rooted in Christian values and traditional family principles. Growing up in a farming family made her understand the struggles of ordinary people in the agriculture sector.
Kristi faced a big challenge when her father died in a tragic grain bin accident in 1994. She had to leave Northern State University to help run the family ranch and farming business. She worked hard to keep the family business going while raising her newborn daughter. These early experiences shaped her into a strong and determined person who embodies heartland leadership and rural America values.
Height, Weight & Physical Appearance
Kristi Noem stands at a height of 5 feet 7 inches, which is about 170 centimeters. She has a fit and healthy physique that reflects her ranching industry background. Her weight is approximately 130 pounds or 59 kilograms. She maintains an active lifestyle that keeps her in good shape.
Kristi has blonde hair and blue eyes that give her a distinctive appearance. She always presents herself in a professional and polished manner with confidence and poise. Her physical presence reflects strength and commanding authority. She takes care of her health and fitness despite her busy political schedule, often engaging in outdoor activities and horseback riding.
Family, Siblings & Personal Life
Kristi Noem is married to Bryon Noem, her high school sweetheart. They got married in 1992 and have been together for over three decades, building a strong bond based on shared rural values and faith. The couple has three children named Kassidy, Kennedy, and Booker. Family is very important to Kristi and she often talks about them, emphasizing work ethic and personal responsibility. She balances her political career with her role as a wife and mother.
Kristi grew up with siblings in her close-knit family. Her family worked together on the farm in their rural farming community. After her father’s death, the family became even stronger in supporting each other. She now enjoys spending time with her grandchildren when she gets free time from her governmental duties. Her husband Bryon operates an insurance and real estate business that contributes to their household income and provides long-term stability.
Education & Early Career
Kristi Noem attended Hamlin High School in South Dakota and graduated in 1990, where she was crowned South Dakota Snow Queen. She then enrolled at Northern State University to pursue higher education. After her father’s tragic death in 1994, she left college to manage the family ranch and take on leadership responsibilities. She later returned to her studies and attended South Dakota State University and took classes at Mount Marty College and University of South Dakota. She finally earned her bachelor’s degree in political science in 2012 while serving in Congress.
Before entering politics, Kristi worked on her family’s farm and ranch operations for many years. She also owned and operated several small businesses including a hunting lodge and restaurant with her husband. These experiences gave her practical knowledge about running a business and understanding small business operations. Her early career taught her about the challenges faced by farmers and small business owners across the Midwest. This background helped her connect with ordinary people when she entered political life.
Political Journey & Career Highlights
Kristi Noem began her political career in 2006 when she was elected to the South Dakota House of Representatives, representing District 6 in parts of Beadle, Clark, Codington, Hamlin, and Kingsbury counties. She served in the state legislature from 2007 to 2011 and gained valuable experience as assistant majority leader. During her tenure, she focused on property tax reform and gun rights legislation, becoming a strong advocate for Second Amendment rights and limited government. In 2010, she decided to run for the U.S. House of Representatives. She won the election and became South Dakota’s first female U.S. Representative, defeating incumbent Democrat Stephanie Herseth Sandlin.
She served in Congress from 2011 to 2019 and worked on agriculture and tax policies, including the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. She served on the House Ways and Means Committee and House Armed Services Committee, advocating for Ellsworth Air Force Base. Her congressional leadership earned her respect as she became liaison to House Republican leadership under Speaker John Boehner.
In 2018, Kristi ran for Governor of South Dakota with the endorsement of President Donald Trump and won the election against Marty Jackley in the primary and Democrat Billie Sutton in the general election. She became the first female governor in the state’s history in January 2019, making her a trailblazer and pioneer in South Dakota politics. During her time as governor, she focused on economic growth, personal freedom, and conservative governance. She gained national attention for her independent handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, opposing mask mandates and advocating voluntary measures and state sovereignty.
Kristi Noem was re-elected as governor in 2022 with strong support from voters, defeating Democratic challenger Jamie Smith. She continued to serve South Dakota with dedication to constitutional rights and federalism until January 2025. Her political journey shows her commitment to public service and conservative values. In November 2024, President-elect Trump selected her to serve as Secretary of Homeland Security in his second term. She was confirmed by the Senate in January 2025 by a vote of 59–34 and was sworn in by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, with Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry holding the Bible.
Net Worth & Sources of Income
Kristi Noem’s estimated net worth is between $1 million and $5 million as of 2025. She has built her wealth through various sources over the years. Her financial success comes from both her political career and business ventures. She has been transparent about her income and assets.
Her primary source of income was her salary as the Governor of South Dakota, which was approximately $120,000 per year. Before becoming governor, she earned a congressional salary during her time in the U.S. House of Representatives. Kristi and her husband own a ranch and farming business that generates additional income from their farmland and ranching operations. They also have investments in real estate and other business ventures through Bryon’s insurance business. Her family’s ranch has been a steady source of revenue for many years, providing generational wealth. Her book “Not My First Rodeo: Lessons from the Heartland” published in 2022 has also added to her income through book royalties and speaking engagements. Her diverse income sources have helped her build a comfortable financial position.
Lifestyle & Personal Interests
Kristi Noem lives a balanced lifestyle that combines her political duties with family time. She enjoys spending time on her ranch in South Dakota with her family, maintaining her connection to her South Dakota roots. Despite her busy schedule, she makes time for her children and grandchildren. She believes in maintaining strong family connections and traditional values that reflect authenticity and patriotism. Her lifestyle reflects her rural roots and simple living preferences rooted in heartland values.
Kristi has a passion for outdoor activities like hunting and horseback riding. She enjoys the beauty of South Dakota’s landscape and nature across the state. Fitness and health are important to her, and she stays active regularly with physical endurance and discipline. She also loves attending rodeos and supporting local events in her state. In her free time, she reads books and stays connected with her community through various activities. Her grounded approach to life shows her commitment to faith and resilience despite holding high-profile positions in American politics.
Social Media Presence & Public Image
Kristi Noem has a strong and active presence on social media platforms. She uses Twitter (X), Facebook, and Instagram (@kristinoem) to connect with people across the country. Her social media accounts have millions of followers who engage with her posts. She shares updates about her work, family life, and political views regularly, showcasing themes of family, faith, and American patriotism. Her online presence helps her communicate directly with voters and supporters.
Kristi’s public image is that of a strong conservative leader and family woman who embodies courage and determination. She is known for her firm stance on political issues and personal freedom. Many people admire her for her leadership and dedication to South Dakota and her commitment to integrity and independence. Her public reputation continues to grow as she remains active in national politics as a prominent national figure in the Republican Party.
Awards, Recognition & Notable Facts
Kristi Noem has received numerous awards and recognition throughout her political career. Here are some notable achievements and interesting facts about her:
First Female Governor – She made history as the first woman to serve as Governor of South Dakota when she took office in 2019, becoming a symbol of strength in leadership.
Congressional Leadership – She served on important committees including the House Ways and Means Committee and was elected as liaison to House Republican leadership during her time in Congress.
National Recognition – She gained widespread national attention for her leadership approach during the COVID-19 pandemic and became a prominent voice in the Republican Party, speaking at the 2020 Republican National Convention.
Agriculture Advocate – She received awards from farming organizations for her strong advocacy for agricultural policies and rural communities, supporting rural development.
Conservative Leadership Award – Various conservative organizations have honored her for her commitment to conservative principles and limited government.
Young Rancher Achievement – Early in her career, she was recognized as a successful young rancher who balanced business with public service.
Published Author – She has shared her story and views through writing her books “Not My First Rodeo: Lessons from the Heartland” (2022) and “No Going Back” (2024), connecting with readers beyond her political platform.
Civil Air Patrol Member – She joined the Civil Air Patrol as a state legislative member during her time in the South Dakota House.
Cabinet Appointment – In 2025, she became the 8th United States Secretary of Homeland Security, focusing on border security and immigration enforcement.
Controversies & Public Perception
Kristi Noem has faced some controversies during her political career. Her handling of certain state policies drew both praise and criticism from different groups. She made headlines for her approach to public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly her opposition to statewide mask mandates. Some people supported her decisions on personal freedom while others disagreed with her methods.
The appraiser certification scandal involving her daughter Kassidy Peters brought ethics investigations and led to a $200,000 settlement with state employee Sherry Bren. She also faced conflict of interest allegations and criticism over government transparency failures despite her platform promises.
Her relationship with Native American tribes became controversial when tribal land bans were imposed by the Oglala Sioux, Cheyenne River Sioux, Standing Rock Sioux, Rosebud Sioux, and other tribes after her comments about Mexican drug cartels on reservations. She later apologized to the tribes, and the Flandreau Santee Sioux dissolved its ban.
Other controversies included the “Meth. We’re on It” campaign, her cannabis legalization opposition and lawsuit against Amendment A, her Mount Rushmore fireworks lawsuit against Secretary Deb Haaland, opposition to hemp cultivation, and spending on the governor’s mansion including $68,000 for imported rugs.
Despite controversies, Kristi maintains strong support among conservative voters. Her supporters appreciate her commitment to personal freedom and state rights. Critics argue that some of her policies were too polarizing. Overall, she remains a controversial figure in American politics with loyal followers and vocal opponents on both sides of the political spectrum.
Books, Speeches & Influence
Kristi Noem has written books that share her personal story and political philosophy. Her memoir “Not My First Rodeo: Lessons from the Heartland” details her journey from a ranch in South Dakota to the governor’s office, offering insights on leadership and faith. She has given numerous speeches at national conferences, political events, and forums including the NRA forum across America. Her powerful speaking style inspires many people who share her conservative values and belief in self-reliance. She uses her platform to advocate for freedom, family values, and limited government.
Kristi’s influence extends beyond South Dakota to the national political stage. She is considered a rising star in the Republican Party with growing influence in American politics. Her words and actions continue to shape political conversations and inspire future leaders. Her leadership style combines traditional values with modern resilience, positioning her as a role model for women in leadership and politics.
South Dakota House of Representatives (2007–2011)
Kristi Noem began her political journey in 2006 when she ran for the South Dakota House of Representatives. She won the election and started serving in 2007, representing District 6. During her four years in the state legislature, she focused on tax reform and agriculture issues affecting the agricultural sector. She quickly gained respect from her colleagues for her practical approach and hard work.
As a state representative, Kristi worked on bills that supported farmers and small business owners. She served on important committees including taxation and agriculture, and was vice chair of the Agriculture Land Assessment Advisory Task Force alongside Senator Larry Rhoden, who later became her lieutenant governor. She was the prime sponsor of 11 bills that became law, including several property tax reforms and two bills to increase gun rights in South Dakota. Her experience in the state house prepared her for bigger political roles. In 2010, she decided to run for the U.S. Congress and left the state legislature.
2024 Presidential Election
Kristi Noem’s name appeared in discussions related to the 2024 presidential race, though she did not run for president herself.
Vice Presidential Speculation – Kristi Noem was mentioned as a potential vice presidential candidate for Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign before the final selection was made.
Campaign Support – She actively campaigned and showed strong support for Donald Trump throughout the 2024 election cycle, demonstrating her loyalty to conservative governance.
National Profile – Her role in the 2024 election discussions raised her national profile and increased her visibility across the country as an influential figure in Republican politics.
Political Endorsements – She endorsed Trump early in the primary process and remained a vocal supporter of his presidential bid, aligning with conservative principles.
Cabinet Appointment – Following Trump’s victory, she was nominated and confirmed as Secretary of Homeland Security, giving her a key role in immigration and border security policy and deportation enforcement.
Kristi Noem’s involvement in the 2024 election strengthened her position as an influential figure in Republican politics and led to her cabinet position.
Personal Life
Kristi Noem married her high school sweetheart, Bryon Noem, in 1992. They have built a strong marriage that has lasted over 30 years based on shared values and commitment. The couple shares a deep bond and works together on their family ranch.
Kristi and Bryon are proud parents of three children: Kassidy, Kennedy, and Booker. All of their children have grown up and started their own lives. Kristi is now a grandmother and cherishes spending time with her grandchildren whenever possible, balancing her demanding political schedule with family time.
Faith and family are the most important parts of Kristi’s personal life. She is a Christian and her religious beliefs guide her decisions and reflect her deep commitment to traditional family values. She enjoys simple pleasures like cooking family meals and attending church services in her community. She has Norwegian ancestry and is a descendant of Ephraim Wilson, who fought in the American Revolutionary War.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Kristi Noem?
Kristi Noem stands at 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall.
What is Kristi Noem’s age?
Kristi Noem is 53 years old, born on November 30, 1971.
Who is Kristi Noem’s husband?
Kristi Noem is married to Bryon Noem, her high school sweetheart since 1992.
How many children does Kristi Noem have?
Kristi Noem has three children: Kassidy, Kennedy, and Booker.
What is Kristi Noem’s net worth?
Kristi Noem’s estimated net worth is between $1 million and $5 million as of 2025.
When did Kristi Noem become Governor of South Dakota?
Kristi Noem became Governor of South Dakota in January 2019, making history as the state’s first female governor, and served until January 2025.
What is Kristi Noem’s educational background?
Kristi Noem earned her bachelor’s degree in political science from South Dakota State University in 2012 while serving in Congress.
Where was Kristi Noem born?
Kristi Noem was born in Watertown, South Dakota, and grew up on a family ranch in Hamlin County.
What political positions has Kristi Noem held?
Kristi Noem served in the South Dakota House of Representatives (2007-2011), U.S. House of Representatives (2011-2019), Governor of South Dakota (2019-2025), and currently serves as U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security (2025-present).
Is Kristi Noem a grandmother?
Yes, Kristi Noem is a grandmother and enjoys spending time with her grandchildren.
Final Thoughts
Kristi Noem has come a long way from her ranch in South Dakota to becoming the state’s first female governor and now serving as Secretary of Homeland Security. Her journey shows hard work, determination, and strong family values rooted in American patriotism. From managing a family farm after her father’s death to leading a state and now overseeing national security, she has proven herself as a capable leader. Her story of perseverance, faith, and leadership inspires many people who dream of making a difference in their communities.
We have covered everything about Kristi Noem’s height, age, family, and net worth in this biography. She continues to serve the American people with dedication and commitment to conservative values and constitutional rights. Her influence in American politics keeps growing with each passing year as a prominent national figure. Whether you agree with her politics or not, her life story is truly remarkable and worth knowing, embodying the enduring values of the heartland and the spirit of determination that defines American leadership.
