Kristi Noem Files for Divorce

What happened

Kristi Noem filed for divorce from her husband, Bryon Noem, in South Dakota after 34 years of marriage. The couple married in 1992 and have three adult children. The split follows public scrutiny over reports alleging Bryon Noem joined fetish forums and appeared in cross-dressing photos, which Noem’s team said blindsided the family. It also followed congressional questions about an alleged affair with Corey Lewandowski, which Noem dismissed as “tabloid garbage.” Her attorney, Michael Sabers, confirmed the filing and said she would speak through the legal process. Bryon Noem’s attorney, Tim Bottum, said he was saddened and wanted a private resolution. His side said he may share his perspective if court proceedings become necessary.

How each side covered it

From the left

The divorce was framed as Noem initiating the end of a decades-long marriage while Bryon Noem was saddened and sought a private, family-focused resolution. The Guardian quoted Tim Bottum saying Bryon’s priority was protecting the family and moving forward as loving parents and grandparents. The Guardian also tied the filing to Daily Mail images of Bryon Noem wearing inflated fake breasts and fetish-forum allegations that Noem’s side said blindsided the family. The Guardian placed the split within broader turmoil for Noem, including her Homeland Security job loss and speculation about Corey Lewandowski.

From the right

Right-leaning outlets leaned harder into scandal and Bryon Noem’s readiness to answer if the case turns contested. Daily Mail emphasized that he would welcome a chance to tell his side in court. The New York Post centered lurid details, including the “bimbofication” fetish claim. Washington Times linked the divorce to questions about Noem’s relationship with Corey Lewandowski.