Kristi Noem's Husband Seeks Spousal Support Amid Divorce
Bryon Noem, estranged husband of South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, has officially requested spousal support from her in their ongoing divorce proceedings.
Kristi Noem’s estranged husband, Bryon Noem, is seeking spousal support from the South Dakota governor, according to court documents filed in Hamlin County. The request comes weeks after Governor Noem, 54, filed for divorce on September 28, citing irreconcilable differences.
Bryon Noem's legal team formally responded to the divorce complaint, agreeing that the marriage is over and requesting court approval for monthly payments from Kristi Noem. Neither party has specified a dollar amount, and no judicial decision on financial compensation has been made. The couple's three children are all adults, so child support is not a factor in the case. Kristi Noem’s legal team has reserved the right to introduce fault-based grounds for the divorce if a settlement cannot be reached.
The couple has been married for 34 years. Bryon Noem, an insurance salesman, was publicly exposed in March by the Daily Mail for engaging in a 'bimbofication' fetish, which involved paying adult performers and posing in women's clothing. Photos published by the outlet showed him in tight pink shorts and a flesh-colored crop top with large fake breasts. He reportedly sent at least $25,000 to online fetish models via PayPal and Cash App, using aliases such as 'Jason Jackson.' One model identified him after accidentally calling a number that led to a voicemail greeting for Noem Insurance, his business.
A spokesperson for Kristi Noem stated at the time that she was "devastated" and that the family had been "blindsided" by the revelations. Former President Donald Trump reacted to the reports by expressing sympathy for the family.
By July, Bryon Noem had reportedly left the couple's home in Castlewood, South Dakota, and was living approximately 20 miles away. He officially acknowledged receipt of the divorce papers on April 8, though they remained unfiled for nearly six months.
Under South Dakota law, both parties are subject to a temporary restraining order while the divorce proceedings continue. Bryon Noem's attorney, Tim Bottum, stated that his client is "saddened that the marriage is ending" and would welcome the chance to share his perspective if the case proceeds to court. Governor Noem's representatives have indicated they have "great faith in the South Dakota judicial system" and will refrain from further public comment on the matter.