(LibertySociety.com) – Kristi Noem’s legal confrontation with The Dakota Scout unveils a heated dispute over alleged credit card expenses during her governorship.
At a Glance
- Noem’s legal team demands The Dakota Scout retract its reporting on credit card expenses.
- The Dakota Scout claims Noem’s expenses total over $650,000, while her legal team argues only $2,056.72 was personal.
- The Dakota Scout stands by its story, alleged inaccuracies despite legal threats from Noem.
- Controversy involves previous journalistic tension with Noem and potential legal actions against other outlets.
Cease-and-Desist Letter from Noem’s Legal Team
Kristi Noem’s attorneys have formally issued a cease-and-desist notice to The Dakota Scout alleging inaccurate reporting on her expenses as governor. The letter accuses the publication of exaggerating Noem’s credit card charges, which were reportedly in excess of $650,000.
The Dakota Scout acquired these figures through an open records lawsuit. Noem’s legal team maintains the report is false, claiming her personal spending was limited to $2,056.72. They argue this misrepresentation damages her reputation, threatening legal proceedings if corrections are not made.
The Dakota Scout’s Defense
The Dakota Scout continues to publish articles suggesting that Noem’s personal expenses involved the alleged $650,000. Despite Noem’s representatives’ efforts to correct this narrative, the publication persists. The news outlet’s coverage, created by reporters Jonathan Ellis and Austin Goss, has sparked controversy.
“The Dakota Scout has not seen the letter, but it sounds like it was written by somebody lacking understanding of the facts and the First Amendment. We stand by our reporting, and wish Sec. Noem well on her endeavors” – co-founder Jonathan Ellis and Joe Sneve.
Noem’s legal team plans to follow similar actions with other media outlets echoing The Dakota Scout’s reports. They describe these claims as defamatory and a threat to Noem’s integrity.
Ongoing Legal and Media Battle
As tensions escalate, Noem’s spokesperson criticized The Dakota Scout for targeting her in a bid to gain prominence. The dispute has signaled a potential pathway for legal battles over misreporting, emphasizing the broader dynamics between political figures and media outlets.
“On behalf of former South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem in her personal capacity, I write out of concern that your website continues to publish false and misleading information about my client that you have known to be false since at least July 2024” – an attorney representing Noem.
This legal battle spotlights the broader challenges faced both by elected officials in defending personal conduct and the media in uncovering and discussing public expenditures.
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