Both Democrats and Republicans are criticizing South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem after she disclosed in her new memoir that she shot and killed her 14-month-old puppy named Cricket due to the dog’s behavior issues.
Noem, a mother of three and former congress member, has gained political popularity in recent years and was considered a top choice to be Donald Trump’s running mate in 2024. However, her shocking revelation, first reported by The Guardian’s Martin Pengelly, has raised concerns about her vice presidential prospects.
In her memoir, Noem describes attempting to redirect Cricket’s energy by taking her hunting, but the dog ended up causing chaos by attacking chickens. Noem decided to euthanize the dog at a gravel pit.
Following the story going viral, Noem defended her actions, stating that tough decisions like this are common on a farm. However, her explanation has not been well-received by both Republicans and Democrats.
Several politicians, including Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, shared pictures of themselves with their pets in response to Noem’s actions.
Criticism also came from Rep. Jared Moskowitz, who created a video in memory of Cricket and called for support to prevent similar incidents in the future. Trump ally Laura Loomer declared that Noem’s actions disqualified her from being a vice presidential candidate.
The Lincoln Project, an anti-Trump political action committee, released a video with the hashtag #Justice4Cricket, condemning the shooting of the dog. Meanwhile, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis urged people to adopt a rescued dog from Big Dog Ranch Rescue, taking a swipe at the southern border crisis.
