Kristi Noem, 54, posted Instagram photos from an archery hunt on Sept. 21 showing her with an elk she said she shot with a bow, calling the trip "super fun" and thanking friends who organized the outing. The images — including one of Noem kneeling behind the bull with her bow across the animal — split her audience, drawing both congratulations and sharp criticism. The episode highlights Noem's long-standing public association with hunting and reignited debate over trophy photos and hunting ethics.
Kristi Noem Sparks Outcry After Sharing Photos With Elk From 'Super Fun' Archery Hunt
Kristi Noem/Instagram
Kristi Noem, the 54-year-old former governor of South Dakota, is facing criticism after posting Instagram photos from an archery hunt on Sept. 21 that show her posing with an elk she said she killed with a bow. In her caption, Noem wrote that she had "finally had a little time" to share the images and described the trip as "super fun," thanking friends who helped organize the hunt.
Kristi Noem/Instagram
One photo shows Noem kneeling behind the bull with her bow propped across the animal; other images show members of the hunting party and the elk's antlers. The post generated a sharp split in public reaction — some followers congratulated her on a successful hunt, while others objected to the trophy-style presentation of a dead animal.
Kristi Noem/Instagram
Public Reaction
Critics called the images upsetting and argued that wildlife deserves respect rather than being displayed as trophies. Representative comments shared on social media included:
"@kristinoem Heartbreaking to see such a magnificent animal lose its life for sport. Wildlife deserves our respect and protection, not to be treated as a trophy."
"Is this supposed to be a proud moment? Wow!! It is amazing how differently humans perceive the world around us."
"Kristi, I really like you as a person. But killing an INNOCENT animal is absolutely despicable."
Context
Hunting has long been part of Noem's public persona. According to PBS, the rancher has participated in pheasant hunts and, while governor, hosted South Dakota's annual governor's hunt. She has frequently highlighted other outdoor pursuits — including fishing and horseback riding — and often shares family hunting outings, such as trips with her son-in-law, Kyle Peters, whom she has called her "number one hunting guide."
The post has reignited broader debates about hunting ethics, trophy photos and how public figures present outdoor traditions to their audiences.
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