Tuesday, January 14, Governor Kristi Noem delivered the State’s 100th State of the State Address to a joint assembly of the legislature. This year is South Dakota’s 100th Anniversary of the legislature.
Noem began her speech providing history of Gladys Pyle, South Dakota’s first female Secretary of State serving in 1927 and the first Republican woman elected to the U.S. Senate in1938. Noem also shared with the legislature that the best days for South Dakota are ahead. “We are just getting started. When I was elected Governor, I knew that our best days were still ahead of us, and I still believe it today. Because we focused on Freedom and not government control, we have unleashed something in our people.” Gov. Kristi Noem
The 2025 speech included a “Top 10” list, focusing on the top reasons why South Dakotan’s continuing to be an example for the nation, with the number nine spot going to healthcare.
The Number Nine Reason Why South Dakota will continue to be an example to the nation: Healthcare
Governor Noem, “Our state has been a leader in health care policy. We took a unique approach to the COVID pandemic. We cared for our people while still respecting their Freedoms.” Gov. Kristi Noem
The Governor went on to share that the healthcare industry created a first-in-the-nation initiative where telehealth services were made available in ambulances across South Dakota.
Guaranteeing price transparency from health insurance companies and a regional mental health facility that allowed South Dakotans to be closer to home were lifted during the Governor’s speech.
The Freedom Works Here campaign assisted in recruiting nurses to our state, with the Governor telling lawmakers the results are incredible. “Over the last two years, the number of nurses working in South Dakota increased by at least 1,100 across all nursing classifications. These professionals are filling critical roles in hospitals and clinics across the state, ensuring that every community has access to care.” Gov. Kristi Noem
This past November, South Dakota voters passed Amendment F, which puts in place work requirements under Medicaid Expansion. Noem shared plans to utilize SD Career Link to assist individuals who fall under those work requirements. “We will connect them with the training, guidance, and support they need to find a stable and meaningful career. This will make South Dakota even strong and more preposterous for the next generation.” Gov. Kristi Noem
The Governor concluded her speech by addressing her nomination from President-Elect Donald Trump, for Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, and her hopes and vision for serving in that role. Noem lifted up Lt. Governor Larry Rhoden as he will become South Dakota’s next Governor if Noem is confirmed.
Last, the Governor thanked her family and the people of South Dakota, “To the people of South Dakota: thank you for the incredible honor of serving you as state representative, as congresswoman, and now as governor. Thank you for trusting me and for working with me to accomplish incredible things.” Gov. Kristi Noem
The full top 10 list for why South Dakotans will continue to be an example to the Nation include:
- 10. Our Education.
- 9. Our Healthcare
- 8. Our Agriculture
- 7. Our Outdoor Opportunities
- 6. Our Babies
- 5. Our Safety
- 4. Our Economy
- 3. Our Values
- 2. Our Freedoms
- 1. Our People
To view the full transcript of Governor Kristi Noem’s State of the State Address, click here.
To watch archived televised broadcast of the address, click here.
For more information on the 2025 Legislative session, visit the Legislative Research Council website. Or visit the SDAHO Advocacy Webpage.
