Kristi Noem is an American politician who served as the 8th U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security (2025–2026) and the 33rd Governor of South Dakota (2019–2025). Born November 30, 1971, she is 54 years old. She has been married to Bryon Noem since 1992, though divorce proceedings were filed in September 2026. Her net worth is estimated between $1 million and $6 million depending on the outlet.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kristi Lynn Arnold Noem |
| Date of Birth | November 30, 1971 |
| Age | 54 |
| Birthplace | Watertown, South Dakota |
| Profession | Politician |
| Notable Roles | U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security (2025–2026); Governor of South Dakota (2019–2025); U.S. Representative (2011–2019) |
| Husband | Bryon Noem (married 1992; divorce filed Sept 2026, pending) |
| Children | 3 (Kassidy, Kennedy, Booker) |
| Education | South Dakota State University (graduated 2011) |
| Estimated Net Worth | $1M – $6M (estimates vary) |
Early Life and Education
Kristi Noem was born Kristi Arnold on November 30, 1971, in Watertown, South Dakota, and raised on her family's ranch in rural Hamlin County. When she was 22, her father Ron Arnold died in a farm machinery accident, and she left college to help run the family ranch.
She later completed her education through courses at multiple institutions, graduating from South Dakota State University in 2011.
Political Career
South Dakota Legislature and U.S. House
Noem served in the South Dakota House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011, then represented South Dakota in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2011 to 2019.
Governor of South Dakota (2019–2025)
In 2018 she was elected the first female Governor of South Dakota, taking office in January 2019 and winning re-election in 2022. As governor she drew national attention for refusing statewide mask mandates and lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Secretary of Homeland Security (2025–2026)
In January 2025, Noem was confirmed by the Senate (59–34) as the 8th U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security. Her tenure, which included controversial immigration enforcement policies, ended in March 2026 when she was removed from the position.
Husband and Family
Kristi Noem married Bryon Noem, her high school sweetheart, on May 23, 1992. Bryon runs Noem Insurance LLC in Castlewood, South Dakota. The couple has three children: daughters Kassidy and Kennedy, and son Booker, and are also grandparents.
In September 2026, divorce proceedings were filed in Hamlin County, South Dakota, citing irreconcilable differences. The divorce was pending, not finalized, at the time of reporting.
Net Worth
No single confirmed net worth figure exists. Published estimates vary widely:
- ~$5 million — Forbes (May 2025), based on property records and financial filings
- ~$1 million — Newsweek's review of her 2024 financial disclosure
- $2M–$6M — various other outlets
Her disclosed assets include ranch land, a Castlewood home on 200 acres, her husband's insurance business, and book royalties. As DHS Secretary she earned a $250,600 salary.
Notable Controversies
Noem's 2024 memoir No Going Back drew bipartisan criticism for a passage describing her shooting her young dog Cricket, which she defended as a responsible ranch decision. The book also contained a claim about meeting Kim Jong Un that she later walked back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Kristi Noem's husband?
Bryon Noem, her high school sweetheart. They married in 1992; divorce was filed in September 2026 and is pending.
How old is Kristi Noem?
She was born November 30, 1971, making her 54 years old.
What is Kristi Noem's net worth?
Estimates range from about $1 million to $6 million depending on the outlet. Forbes estimated around $5 million in 2025.
What positions has Kristi Noem held?
U.S. Representative (2011–2019), Governor of South Dakota (2019–2025), and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security (January 2025–March 2026).
Does Kristi Noem have children?
Yes — three: daughters Kassidy and Kennedy, and son Booker.