PIERRE — Former South Dakota Gov. Noem, a Republican, was rumored as a possible Senate candidate this year but is not challenging incumbent Republican Sen. Mike Rounds. Another South Dakota Republican U.S. senator, Majority Leader John Thune, will face a decision about running for reelection in 2028. ADVERTISEMENT“They have been incredible people of integrity to lead South Dakota,” she said. Kristi Noem speaks with attendees at the unveiling of her statue on the Trail of Governors on Aug. 7, 2026, in Pierre, South Dakota.