The Race to Trump's VP: Kristi Noem's Prospects Dwindle Amid Controversies

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, once considered a frontrunner for Donald Trump's potential running mate, faces diminished chances following recent negative headlines.

Former President Donald Trump's search for a running mate continues, and South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has been a prominent name on the shortlist. However, recent self-inflicted controversies have cast a shadow over her prospects.

Noem's admission in a book excerpt that she shot her dog for attacking a neighbor's chickens has sparked widespread criticism. She has defended her actions, arguing that the dog posed a threat to her family. However, the incident has raised questions about her temperament and judgment.

Erin Perrine, a former Trump campaign spokesperson, believes Noem has handled the controversy "incredibly poorly." She argues that Noem's seemingly false claim that she had met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un also undermines her credibility.

"These controversies will continue to be part of the conversation around her for some time. While Noem brings strengths to the table, these controversies would overshadow her candidacy and make her a more contentious choice for the VP slot," Perrine said.

Democratic strategist Kevin Walling echoed these concerns, calling Noem's book a "total disaster." He believes Noem's inability to answer simple questions about her own biography has been embarrassing, making her a liability in TV appearances.

"Hailing from reliably red South Dakota provides some geographic balance to the ticket but wouldn't drive actual help in the Electoral College in November," Walling added.

Others have been more blunt in their assessment of Noem's chances. Pollster Scott Rasmussen believes she "could have been an interesting option before her book release. At this point, she is no longer a serious contender."

A Republican strategist and former Trump administration official told Fox News that Noem was "never a top contender to whom it matters most."

Despite the recent setbacks, Noem has several strengths that could still make her an attractive choice for Trump. She is a two-term governor with executive and legislative experience, having also served four terms in Congress. As a woman and a member of Gen X, she would bring gender and generational balance to the ticket.

Noem's conservative views on issues like abortion could also appeal to the hard right of the GOP voter base. She is expected to attend another fundraiser alongside Trump in New York City on Tuesday.

Other contenders for the VP slot include South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, Arkansas Gov. Sarah Sanders, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, House GOP Conference Chair Eliste Stefanik, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, and Florida Sen. Marco Rubio.

Trump has not indicated when he will announce his vice presidential pick, but it is expected to be shortly before the July RNC convention.