Governor Kristi Noem (R-SD) expressed confidence that she could aid former President Donald Trump in securing victory in the presidential election this November if given the opportunity.
When asked if she believed she could help Trump defeat President Joe Biden in the 2024 race as his running mate, she promptly replied, "Oh, I know I could."
CPAC 2024: Kristi Noem says ‘I know I could’ help Trump win as his vice presidential choice https://t.co/4zpN1Ms5Q7
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) February 24, 2024
In an interview with the Washington Examiner after her speech on Friday at the American Conservative Union's 2024 Conservative Political Action Conference, Noem pointed to her "experience running businesses, serving as governor, representing in Congress, but above all, being a mom" as her qualifications.
Noem elaborated, stating that being a mother means "I have the ability to wake up every day and think about what kind of country I am leaving for my kids," adding that she also has "two grandbabies."
"All of that brings a different perspective that I believe not many people can offer," she said. "But time will tell."
Conversely, Noem asserted that Trump needs someone "tough" who can provide him with "strength" during challenging moments in the campaign.
While acknowledging that Trump has not approached her for the role, she emphasized, "And we've never had that conversation."
She noted that "he has some good options" and reiterated her commitment to "doing everything" to ensure his victory in November.
Speaking at CPAC, Noem reminded the audience that she endorsed Trump early in the primary process. "Last year, when everyone was asking me if I would consider running for president, I said no," she recounted. "Why run for president if you can't win?"
During a recent town hall on Fox News, Trump confirmed that Noem was on his short list for a running mate, alongside Governor Ron DeSantis (R-FL), Senator Tim Scott (R-SC), entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, Representative Byron Donalds (R-FL), and former Hawaii Representative Tulsi Gabbard.
These names were proposed by host Laura Ingraham, with Trump affirming that each was under consideration. "They are," he disclosed. "Honestly, all of those people are good. They're all solid."
Trump is increasingly expected to secure the Republican nomination for president, likely facing off against Biden, who faces minimal opposition for the Democratic nomination.
Trump holds a significant double-digit lead over one of the few remaining GOP contenders, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley, in her home state, which is set to vote Saturday.
