‘Not right': South Dakota Gov Kristi Noem trolled for endorsing Texas dental practice on social media

PIERRE, SOUTH DAKOTA: Governor Kristi Noem of South Dakota has found herself at the center of a social media firestorm after appearing in a lengthy video testimonial endorsing a cosmetic dentistry practice located over 1,000 miles away in Texas.

The nearly five-minute infomercial-style video, which features before-and-after photos and close-ups of Noem's new smile, was posted on her X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram accounts earlier this week, as per New York Post.

In the testimonial, the 52-year-old Republican governor gushes about the "absolutely amazing" and "phenomenal" work done by the dentists at Smile Texas in Sugar Land.

However, Noem's surprising cross-country endorsement of the dental firm has drawn harsh criticism from many who view it as an inappropriate use of her position.

Kristi Noem's testimonial for Smile Texas appears to be well-produced infomercial

Noem's testimonial appeared to be a well-produced infomercial, complete with before and after photos and close-up shots of her dental work. She cited a biking accident "years ago" as the reason for needing dental treatment and praised the dentists at Smile Texas for their work.

Surprisingly, instead of seeking treatment locally, she opted to travel over 1,000 miles from her mansion in South Dakota to undergo the procedures at Smile Texas. "They have been absolutely phenomenal," Noem gushed about the dentists, praising their work in fixing her teeth.

She emphasized the importance of her appearance stating, "In the world of politics, everything is speaking and interviews and giving speeches, and I wanted people to look at me to hear the words that I say and not be distracted by something that I'm wearing or how I look."

It remains uncertain whether Noem received compensation for her testimonial, which she also shared on her Instagram profile. According to the platform's guidelines, she would be obligated to disclose any financial arrangement with the company.

Earlier this year, former President Donald Trump disclosed that Noem is being considered as a potential running mate for the upcoming general election.

Internet mocks Kristi Noem's endorsement

The Internet wasted no time in mocking Noem's endorsement.

One X user remarked, "Who told you this was a good idea?"

Another criticized, "You’re promoting Texas businesses as the governor of SD."

Another user highlighted the perceived ethical issue, commenting, "What's interesting about this ad is you brazenly let people know you're easily bought and paid for. Get that bag, girlfriend."

Meanwhile, someone else accused Noem of engaging in opportunistic behavior, stating, "GOP grifting."

A further critic expressed disillusionment with the Republican party, stating, "You are one of the reasons why no one takes Republicans seriously..."

Summing up the sentiment, another user simply stated, "This is just not right on so many levels."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.