it comes to the governor
Seven Native American Tribes in South Dakota Ban Governor Kristi Noem from Reservations
After making controversial remarks about drug trade on reservations, Governor Kristi Noem has been banned from seven tribal reservations in South Dakota. The Associated Press reports that tribal leaders are outraged by Noem’s comments, which suggest that their reservations are safe havens for drug dealers and that tribal leaders are turning a blind eye to the issue.
“Tribal Leaders Personally Benefiting from Cartels,” Says Governor Kristi Noem
At a recent forum, Governor Noem accused tribal leaders of personally benefiting from the presence of drug cartels on their reservations. She claims that this is the reason why they are attacking her and refusing her help in addressing the issue. However, she vows to continue fighting for the people who live in these dangerous situations and have reached out to her for assistance.
Rift Between Governor Noem and South Dakota Tribes Deepens
The tension between Governor Noem and the Native American tribes in her state continues to escalate. In a bold move, Noem shared a video on social media exposing the trade of fentanyl on reservations, calling on tribal leaders to take action and accept her offer to help restore law and order while respecting their sovereignty. She also criticizes the Biden Administration for failing to address the issue.
Seven Tribal Reservations Now Ban Governor Noem
The Oglala, Rosebud, Cheyenne River, and Standing Rock Sioux tribes have already banned Governor Noem from their reservations. Last week, the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate (SWO) tribe joined the list, bringing the total number of banned reservations to seven. This accounts for nearly 17% of South Dakota’s total land area, with the Pine Ridge Reservation being the largest at 3,469 square-miles.
Yankton Sioux Tribe Latest to Ban Governor Noem
The Yankton Sioux Tribe voted to ban Governor Noem from their land in southeastern South Dakota, making them the latest tribe to take action against her. With nine tribal reservations in the state, only a few have yet to ban the governor.
History of Conflict Between Governor Noem and South Dakota Tribes
This is not the first time Governor Noem has faced backlash from the Native American tribes in her state. In 2016, tensions rose during the Dakota Access Pipeline protests at Standing Rock. More recently, during the COVID-19 pandemic, state leaders set up checkpoints at reservation borders, causing further strain in the relationship. Noem was even temporarily banned from the Oglala Sioux reservation in 2019 due to a protest dispute.
Native American Tribes in South Dakota Stand Strong Against Governor Noem
Despite the ongoing conflict, the Native American tribes in South Dakota remain united in their decision to ban Governor Noem from their reservations. As the governor continues to face criticism and backlash, it is clear that the relationship between her and the tribes is far from amicable.
