SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) -- South Dakota's political leaders are extending congratulations to Kristi Noem after she was confirmed Saturday for Secretary of Homeland Security. Dusty Johnson extended his congradulations to Noem shortly after her official confirmation. “Kristi Noem has always been a leader who takes action, that’s why I’m happy she will officially be the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security,” said Johnson in a press release. “I’ve seen Kristi make good decisions in times of adversity and disaster, and I know she will continue to showcase her strong South Dakota work ethic in her new role.” Larry Rhoden succeeds to governor of South Dakota Marty Jackley also extended a congradulations to Kristi Noem. “Congratulations to Gov. Kristi Noem on being confirmed as Homeland Security Director. She understands the need to keep America safe, address immigration, and secure the southern border to keep dangerous drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine from entering states. We look forward to working with her in her new position," said Marty Jackley in a press release. Jackley extended congradulations Governor Larry Rhoden as well, who succeeded Noem following her confirmation. "Congradulations to South Dakota’s new Governor Larry Rhoden. I have known Larry since he welded our ranch branding irons more than a quarter of a century ago, and I have appreciated serving with him during the years.  As Attorney General, I look forward to continuing to work with him to make our State the best in the Nation,”  said Jackley