Kristi Noem’s Late Swearing-In Criticized by JD Vance: He Leaves Early

Jan. 27, 2025, 1:09 pm ET

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  • Kristi Noem was sworn in as the new Secretary of Homeland Security, marking a significant shift in her career.
  • Noem was late to her own swearing-in ceremony, prompting JD Vance to leave.
  • The incident highlights potential internal dynamics within the new administration.

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Quick Brief

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Essential Context

Kristi Noem, the former Governor of South Dakota, was sworn in as the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security on January 26, 2025. The ceremony was conducted by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas after the Senate voted to confirm her in a 59-34 vote earlier that day.

Core Players

  • Kristi Noem – Former Governor of South Dakota, new DHS Secretary
  • Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas – Conducted the swearing-in ceremony
  • JD Vance – U.S. Senator who attended the ceremony but left early
  • Department of Homeland Security (DHS) – The agency Noem now leads

Key Numbers

  • 59-34 – Senate vote confirming Noem as DHS Secretary
  • January 26, 2025 – Date of Noem’s swearing-in ceremony
  • 2025 – Year Noem began her tenure as DHS Secretary

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The Catalyst

Kristi Noem’s swearing-in as the new Secretary of Homeland Security marked a significant transition in her career. However, the ceremony was somewhat marred by her late arrival, which prompted JD Vance to leave before the proceedings began.

Inside Forces

Noem’s late arrival highlights potential internal dynamics and communication issues within the new administration. This incident could indicate broader organizational challenges as Noem settles into her new role.

Noem has resigned from her position as Governor of South Dakota, with former Lieutenant Governor Larry Rhoden taking over the governorship.

Power Dynamics

The relationship between Noem and other figures, including JD Vance, may face scrutiny following this incident. Noem’s ability to manage these relationships will be crucial as she navigates her new responsibilities at DHS.

The confirmation vote of 59-34 reflects some level of bipartisan support, but also indicates potential future challenges and opposition she may face.

Outside Impact

Noem’s leadership at DHS could have broad implications for national security policies and homeland security operations. Her late arrival to the ceremony may raise questions about her leadership style and ability to manage critical events.

Stakeholders, including lawmakers and the public, will be watching her performance closely as she takes on this critical role.

Future Forces

Noem’s tenure at DHS is expected to focus on several key areas, including border security, terrorism prevention, and disaster response. Her ability to address these issues effectively will be under close scrutiny.

  • Border security enhancements
  • Counter-terrorism initiatives
  • Disaster response and recovery
  • Immigration policy reforms

Data Points

  • January 26, 2025 – Date of Noem’s swearing-in ceremony
  • 59-34 – Senate vote confirming Noem as DHS Secretary
  • 2025 – Year Noem began her tenure as DHS Secretary
  • Larry Rhoden – New Governor of South Dakota following Noem’s resignation

As Kristi Noem begins her tenure as the Secretary of Homeland Security, her leadership will be closely watched. The incident at her swearing-in ceremony serves as a reminder of the challenges she may face in managing relationships and coordinating critical events.