Governor Kristi Noem fights back against allegations of misuse of government funds as her legal team battles The Dakota Scout’s claims of extravagant credit card spending.
Key Takeaways
- Legal action by Noem’s team challenges The Dakota Scout’s reporting on credit card expenses.
- Noem’s team asserts only $2,056.72 was for personal use, not $650,000.
- The Dakota Scout stands by its report, despite Noem’s cease-and-desist demands.
- Credit card records obtained through an open records lawsuit.
Kristi Noem’s Legal Challenge
Kristi Noem, assisted by her legal team, has launched a rebuttal against The Dakota Scout for their report alleging her excessive use of a government-issued credit card. Noem’s counsel issued a cease-and-desist letter claiming the news outlet published misleading information, suggesting Noem accrued expenses totaling over $650,000. Her representatives argue that merely $2,056.72 was for personal expenditures.
The legal team for Noem insists the outlet’s figures are incorrect and defamatory. The lawyers’ statement is seen as the first step in a potential legal battle unless The Dakota Scout rectifies its claims. They emphasize that adjustments must be made before further escalations.
The Dakota Scout’s Position
The Dakota Scout, through its co-founders Jonathan Ellis and Joe Sneve, has maintained its stance. “The Dakota Scout has not seen the letter, but it sounds like it was written by somebody lacking understanding of the facts and the First Amendment,” they asserted. The publication obtained the reported figures following a successful open records lawsuit and continues to defend its integrity.
Noem’s team monitored The Dakota Scout’s efforts to portray Noem negatively, implying the outlet wishes to enhance its profile by targeting her. The team plans to issue similar letters to other media outlets that echo these claims.
“On behalf of former South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem in her personal 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” – Noem’s attorney
Beyond the Claims
Credit card records showcase that, although over $650,000 was expended, the substantial majority covered legitimate government business. However, the details reveal the underlying friction between Noem and outlets reporting on her activities. Her representative labeled the reports as attempts to discredit her by elevating controversy.
As the situation escalates, the climate between conservative figures and media institutions intensifies. Each side steadfastly upholds its version of the facts, setting the scene for potential courtroom confrontations.
