Former Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has initiated divorce proceedings against her husband, Bryon Noem, in South Dakota court. The filing, which cites irreconcilable differences, marks the end of a marriage lasting more than 34 years.
According to documents submitted to Hamlin County court on Monday, the complaint was originally signed by Kristi Noem’s legal counsel in April. As a result of the proceedings, a temporary restraining order is now in effect between the two parties under South Dakota law.
Kristi Noem, who served as the governor of South Dakota before being appointed DHS secretary, was dismissed from her cabinet role by President Donald Trump in March of this year. Prior to her government service, she was well-known as a prominent Republican figure in the state. In her autobiography, she detailed their history as high school sweethearts and described how her husband courted her. The couple shares three children and several grandchildren.
Bryon Noem was frequently visible alongside his wife during her tenure, accompanying her to congressional testimonies and public events. Following her dismissal, President Trump appointed her as the special envoy to the “Shield of the Americas,” a coalition involving the U.S. and various Latin American governments.
The divorce filing comes amid various personal and professional controversies. During her time as DHS secretary, Noem faced congressional inquiries regarding her close relationship with chief adviser Corey Lewandowski, both of whom denied any romantic involvement.
Additionally, earlier this year, the Daily Mail published photographs alleging that Bryon Noem was wearing women’s clothing and fake breasts, alongside claims that he had exchanged messages and made payments to women online. Noem’s attorney, Michael K. Sabers, stated that Kristi Noem has filed for dissolution of marriage and expressed confidence in the South Dakota judicial system, noting she would reserve further comments for legal proceedings.
In response, Tim Bottum, an attorney representing Bryon Noem, told ABC News that his client is “saddened” by the end of the marriage. Bottum added that Bryon Noem looks forward to sharing his perspective truthfully should the matter proceed to court.
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