Kristi Noem Wants More States To Adopt Extreme Abortion Laws

South Dakota Gov. Christy Noem (R), who has been touted as a potential 2024 presidential candidate, on Tuesday called for more states to pass end-of-life abortion laws.

Abortion is illegal in South Dakota unless the mother’s life is at risk, due to a trigger law that went into effect after the Supreme Court overturned last summer’s landmark Roe v. Wade decision.

Noem is now calling on “every governor” to implement similar policies.

“I think talking about situations and making statements is incredibly important, but also taking action and driving and implementing policies that protect life is even more important because that’s really going to save lives,” Noem told CBS News.

Ian Fury, Noem’s spokesman, earlier this month criticized Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) for ‘hiding behind a 15-week ban’ on abortions.

DeSantis has been vague on abortion, but last month hinted at the possibility of approving a six-week ban in the state.

“I’m ready to sign a great pro-life bill,” DeSantis said in December. “It’s what I always said I was going to do.”

While Republicans have supermajorities in the Florida state House and Senate and could easily pass more restrictive laws, DeSantis’ widely expected run for president may explain his reluctance to push through change.

Asked if she agreed with Fury’s comments about DeSantis, Noem told CBS News, “I believe every leader today has the opportunity to protect every single life. And I’m proud that in South Dakota we did just that.”

Republicans have continued to pursue anti-abortion policies despite the party’s poor performance in November’s midterm elections, to which even former President Donald Trump has attributed his extreme positions on abortion.

During the interview, Noem denied the Daily Beast’s recent report that Trump had given her approval to pursue DeSantis.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve had the opportunity to speak with President Trump in person,” Noem said.

The governor did not give a clear answer on whether he is planning his own presidential bid.

“I’m not convinced that I should run for president, but I also believe that this country needs someone to lead us and who has a vision,” Noem said.