Noem Names Venhuizen Chief of Staff
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem announced today that she will name Tony Venhuizen as her new chief of staff. Venhuizen, who has been working with the Governor’s Office on a temporary basis since January, will be leaving his private law practice to rejoin state government.
“Given his tenure and wealth of historical knowledge, Tony brings a unique set of skills to my team,” Noem said. “Time after time, he has answered the call to public service in the name of the great people of South Dakota. I’m excited to have him leading my office as we head into the second year of my term.”
Venhuizen served in senior roles in the administration of Governor Dennis Daugaard, including more than four years as chief of staff, and previously served as a senior advisor to Governor Noem. He was appointed by Governor Mike Rounds to the South Dakota Board of Regents, serving for five years, and he has worked on the last three gubernatorial transitions.
“I am honored to accept this role,” said Venhuizen. “Governor Noem is an energetic and forward-thinking leader, and I’m excited to work with her, Lt. Governor Rhoden, and the many fine people on her cabinet and staff.”
Venhuizen is an Armour native. He earned his bachelor’s degree in history and political science from South Dakota State University and his law degree from the University of South Dakota School of Law. Venhuizen and his wife, Sara, have three children and live in Sioux Falls.
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I’d suggest Tony run for governor in a few years.
Why would he volunteer to be demoted?
Is this April fools?
A great pick, understands the state, the legislature and the process.
How many chiefs of staff is this for her already? Is there normally this much turnover in this position? I dont recall that being the case previously.
Does she not want to win re-election? DRAIN THE PIERRE SWAMP!!
The role of COS is one of the hardest roles I have ever observed, in and outside government.
1). Have the curiosity to want to know about a lot of disparate areas and willingness to get deep in the weeds when necessary.
2). The person must have the ability to give the Governor the frankest of advice, especially advice nobody else gives and the Governor doesn’t want to hear.
3). At the same time, lead every department and execute every decision of the Governor as if those decisions were their own.
Tony is one of the few who fits the bill. The People of the State should be grateful Tony is willing to serve us in this especially difficult and unique position.