(Letter to the Editor - Photo Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

I write with concern over the past actions of Kristi Noem who rose from being the governor of South Dakota to her current position as U.S. Homeland Security secretary. I am a big believer in setting aside our politics for speaking up against “wrong.”

Several years ago, based on my research, Kristi shot her 14-month-old dog, “Cricket,” for not hunting properly and for killing a neighbor’s chickens. Cricket was so joyfully excited that day during the hunt. Kristi decided to put an end to Cricket’s life by taking him to a pit and shooting him.

She then decided that she might as well kill her goat that she hated, so she did the same thing to him. Sadly, she didn’t fully kill the goat so she let him suffer until she could reload and finally kill him. She seems to claim that it’s “part of ranch life.”

Please keep in mind that I am fully aware of the necessary, sometimes emotionally difficult, tasks of farmers and ranchers; however, in these cases, there were choices, including getting the right trainer and/or rehoming.

This concern has nothing to do with politics; in fact, I am an Independent voter (neither Democrat nor Republican). My concern is that one day she might run for president or become a running mate. Granted, we are all sinners with a past. We will never find a governmental person who has led a life completely like Jesus did when He walked this earth. However, shouldn’t we, as voters, consider those who are cruel to God’s creatures before casting that vote?

People can mess up in their lives in various ways, be it in the marriage, in various relationships, in finances, in just about anything — but doesn’t animal cruelty take it to another level? Should we be so committed to our political parties that we ignore such acts and just live “life as usual?”

I cannot imagine the terror and fear that both of those animals felt that day. As I understand, nearby construction workers who were building her new house, were in shock. With all that said, the worst part about it is that she felt so much pride that she was motivated to brag about it in her book. She wanted the readers to see that she is “tough.” Do we need that kind of tough?

Think about it. Don’t be afraid to speak out against wrong. Wrong is wrong!

Linda Perry

Washington, W.Va.