Kristi Noem’s legal team challenges The Dakota Scout’s claims that she incurred over $650,000 in debt on a government credit card during her tenure as governor. They assert her expenses were around $2,056.72, sparking a tense legal confrontation demanding corrections. As a showdown looms, the outcome remains uncertain.
Disputed Credit Card Expenses
Currently serving as Homeland Security Secretary, South Dakota’s Kristi Noem is embroiled in a legal battle over her alleged credit card spending as governor. The Dakota Scout reported she incurred over $650,000, but Noem’s legal team refutes these claims, presenting receipts that show personal expenses of $2,056.72. Her office, they state, was responsible for the bulk of charges, totaling more than $650,000 for official purposes.
Kristi Noem's credit card expenses: Search database to see 5 years of charges
The Dakota Scout, Sioux Falls Live curate more than 1,200 transactions on state-issued credit card; searchable database made available to subscribers
Story: https://t.co/9oNxaweheo pic.twitter.com/4LbsUonPRh
— The Dakota Scout (@TheDakotaScout) March 4, 2025
The Dakota Scout remains steadfast in its reporting, attributing the expenses to Noem personally, despite receiving requests for correction from Noem’s attorneys who argue the initial report is defamatory. Noem’s legal representatives have issued a cease-and-desist letter to the outlet, warning of possible legal consequences if the reported figures are not amended.
Legal Proceedings and Defamation Claims
The introduction of legal measures escalates the dispute between Noem and The Dakota Scout. The media outlet obtained credit card records through an open records lawsuit and maintains its position. Noem’s team plans on sending cease-and-desist notices to other outlets sharing the same narrative.
Taxpayer-backed credit card use rose with Kristi Noem’s national profile
Travel, lodging for former South Dakota governor’s security detail largest portion of $750,000 paid on two state charge accounts
Story: https://t.co/aVvTP11PPG pic.twitter.com/lp3KgWFurn
— The Dakota Scout (@TheDakotaScout) March 7, 2025
“On behalf of former South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem in her capacity, I write out of concern that your website continues to publish false and misleading information about my client that you have known to be false since at least July 2024” – an attorney representing Noem said.
In response, The Dakota Scout’s co-founders Jonathan Ellis and Joe Sneve assert confidence in their reporting, asserting the claims in the letter lack insight into the facts or the First Amendment. The contentious nature of this conflict underscores the challenges of reporting on high-profile figures.
Public and Political Implications
The outcome of this legal challenge might hold broader implications for media accountability and political reputation. Coverage of Noem’s credit card activity, penned by journalists Jonathan Ellis and Austin Goss, has been criticized by Noem’s spokesperson as an opportunistic move against a high-profile public figure. Despite the potential repercussions, the Dakota Scout persists, drawing attention to Noem’s public and private expenditures.
As the case unfolds, the accuracy of The Dakota Scout’s reporting and its potential impact on other media outlets and politicians are scrutinized. The ensuing legal proceedings will closely examine the principles of freedom of speech, press freedom, and reputational rights.
