South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem and former political aide Corey Lewandowski were recently photographed together in Wayzata, Minnesota, enjoying an outing that included dining and a bike ride. The appearance comes as Governor Noem is undergoing a divorce from her husband, Bryon Noem.
Public Outing in Minnesota
The pair were seen on Tuesday at The Grocer’s Table, an outdoor cafe located on the shores of Lake Minnetonka. Images captured them sharing a meal and interacting casually, with Governor Noem, 54, seen laughing while looking at Lewandowski’s phone. Following their meal, they were observed taking a bicycle ride along the waterfront.
Both Noem and Lewandowski, 52, were dressed in casual attire for the outing. Noem wore a flannel shirt and a floppy hat, while Lewandowski sported a black t-shirt and dark sunglasses. The setting was Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis known for its affluent community.
Insider Claims of Close Relationship
Sources close to the situation have described Noem and Lewandowski as being “closer than ever.” An insider reportedly shared that while the decision to file for divorce from Bryon Noem was “very difficult” and that Governor Noem “loves Bryon. Always will,” Lewandowski has been a significant source of support. The source highlighted Lewandowski’s presence during challenging professional and personal times, including Noem’s departure from a previous role and the public attention surrounding her husband’s personal matters.
This observation of closeness follows previous reports and denials regarding a romantic relationship between Noem and Lewandowski. They had previously refuted claims of a relationship when their proximity was first reported in 2023.
Background of Governor Noem’s Divorce
Governor Noem’s divorce proceedings were initiated following reports concerning her husband, Bryon Noem. In March, allegations surfaced regarding Bryon Noem’s alleged participation in online fetish communities, specifically the “bimbofication” scene. This involved sending compromising images and expressing interest in specific body modifications.
The reports, which reviewed communications and messages, detailed Bryon Noem’s engagement with online performers and his expressed desires. These revelations reportedly led to Governor Noem feeling “blindsided” and “devastated.” Her mother, Corinne Arnold, confirmed in an interview that the situation had become an “unbearable final blow” to the couple’s 34-year marriage, leading to the decision to divorce.
Bryon Noem, 56, has since moved out of the family home and is reportedly living separately while continuing to manage his insurance agency. The couple, who met in high school and married in 1992, share three adult children: Kassidy, Kennedy, and Booker.
Professional Context and Past Scrutiny
The public attention on Governor Noem’s personal life has also intersected with her professional career. In March, she was removed from her position as Secretary of Homeland Security by President Trump. While the exact reasons were not officially detailed at the time, the move occurred amidst speculation about her relationship with Lewandowski and the ongoing scrutiny of her husband’s activities.
Following her departure from DHS, Noem was reassigned to lead the Shield of the Americas, a newly established agency within the State Department. Previously, she had been a prominent figure, sometimes referred to as “ICE Barbie,” known for her assertive immigration enforcement stances.
During a congressional hearing related to her immigration policies, Noem faced a direct question from Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove regarding her relationship with Corey Lewandowski. Noem responded by expressing shock at the line of questioning, characterizing it as “tabloid garbage.”
Conclusion
The recent public appearance of Kristi Noem and Corey Lewandowski in Minnesota occurs during a significant period of personal transition for the South Dakota Governor. As she navigates divorce proceedings, her continued association with Lewandowski has drawn public attention, set against the backdrop of her professional career and past controversies.
