Former South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem Joins Canadian Mining Company’s Advisory Board
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Kristi Noem, the former governor of South Dakota and a close ally of former President Donald Trump, has joined the advisory board of NovaRed Mining, a Canadian company based in British Columbia, according to multiple reports. The announcement, first detailed by Global News, marks a significant shift in Noem’s career as she transitions from political leadership to a role in the mining sector.
Noem’s new position with NovaRed Mining, a firm focused on mineral exploration and development in Canada’s resource-rich regions, was confirmed by the company in a press release. “Kristi Noem’s expertise in policy, economic development, and her deep understanding of regulatory frameworks make her a valuable addition to our advisory board,” said NovaRed Mining CEO Andrew Macdonald in a statement. The company did not specify the scope of Noem’s responsibilities or the duration of her advisory role.
The move comes as Noem continues to navigate her post-governorship career. She served as South Dakota’s governor from 2019 to 2023 and was a prominent figure in Trump’s 2020 re-election campaign. In 2023, she was named a special envoy for the Trump administration, though the role was non-operational after Biden’s election. Noem has since remained active in political and business circles, including advising tech startups and conservative policy groups.
NovaRed Mining, which listed on the TSX Venture Exchange in 2021, has faced scrutiny over its environmental practices and community engagement in Indigenous territories. The company’s website highlights its focus on “sustainable resource development” and partnerships with local stakeholders. However, environmental advocates have raised concerns about its operations in British Columbia’s fragile ecosystems.
The appointment of Noem, a Republican politician known for her pro-business stance, has drawn mixed reactions. Some industry analysts view her expertise as a strategic asset for NovaRed Mining, particularly in navigating regulatory environments. Others have questioned the potential conflict of interest, given her past role in state governance.
“Kristi Noem’s involvement could provide NovaRed Mining with a political and policy advantage, especially as the company expands its operations in Canada,” said Sarah Lin, a mining sector analyst at Vancouver-based research firm Resource Insights. “However, her appointment also raises questions about the intersection of politics and corporate interests