A new statue of Kristi Noem, the former Governor of South Dakota, now stands in Pierre’s Trail of Governors. This statue stands out as the only female representation among its predominantly male counterparts and is uniquely accompanied by a half horse, symbolizing her tumultuous political career.

Noem is no stranger to overcoming obstacles, but her recent foray into the national spotlight through the promotion of her book, “No Going Back,” has not gone as planned. The book tour has drawn significant scrutiny after Noem faced backlash for controversial decisions highlighted within its pages, including the lethal handling of an unruly dog and a goat.

While she framed these actions as tough leadership decisions, many in the public and advocacy groups deemed them as instances of animal cruelty. Further complicating her narrative, Noem had to address inaccuracies in her book, particularly a fabricated confrontation with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, which she attributed to her ghostwriter.

Noem crafted her book with hopes of impressing Donald Trump, aiming for a spot as his running mate for the 2024 elections. However, when her book tour became fodder for late-night comedians, speculation about her future political ambitions began to wane.

Undeterred, Noem saw a glimmer of opportunity when Trump secured a second term and appointed her as Secretary of Homeland Security. This role offered her a platform to solidify her position among potential contenders for the 2028 Republican presidential nomination.

Yet, her leadership style, marked by a brash and sometimes reckless approach to border security, ultimately led to her downfall. Striking negative attention in the wake of operational missteps, including the fatal incidents involving ICE agents in Minneapolis, she soon found herself facing intense criticism.

In an administration notorious for dismissing negative press as fake news, even Trump felt compelled to distance himself from Noem’s controversies. Ultimately, she was removed from her cabinet position, only to be reassigned as a special envoy for the Shield of the Americas, an appointment many view as a face-saving measure.

During the unveiling of her statue, Noem indicated she was not ruling out a political comeback, stating, “I wouldn’t take it off the table… I have a lot of other things to do, too.” Despite past election victories, ambition to return to the political arena will likely encounter complicated dynamics.

As 2028 beckons, potential challengers are emerging. Reports suggest that Noem may consider a run against Republican Sen. Mike Rounds or even a primary challenge to Senate Majority Leader John Thune.

However, the crowded field in South Dakota makes her return to politics uncertain. The state’s Republican landscape has become increasingly competitive, where incumbents and established names are regularly challenged.

Recent primary contests have shown that strong incumbency or name recognition is no guarantee of safety. Governor Larry Rhoden and Senator Rounds recently faced serious challengers, proving that the political environment is ripe for conflict.

Noem, although a name with past electoral victories, must now contend with a digital landscape that has transformed her into a source of ridicule. Memes mocking her strained relationships—particularly involving animals—have proliferated, further complicating her potential return.

Critics argue that her tenure as governor adds to the challenges she must address. Decisions such as deploying the National Guard to politically favorable locations and her administration’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic have left a public record not easily overshadowed.

Additionally, her failures to address significant issues like property tax reform and mismanagement of significant state funds do not paint a rosy picture of her governance.

While Noem has historically displayed resilience in her political career, the current climate of scrutiny presents barriers that may be tough to overcome.

As the political landscape in South Dakota evolves, Noem faces the daunting task of navigating a field full of both challengers and a legacy that has drawn laughter and disdain.

Add to this the ongoing political discourse surrounding her record; a return to political aspirations could result in a reopening of old wounds and renewed public scrutiny.

Time will tell if Kristi Noem can pivot from her current position or if it’s time for her to fade from the political spotlight and ride off into the sunset, statue in hand.